POINTS Meaning and
Definition
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Points is a plural noun that refers to small, distinct units or marks used to indicate or measure various aspects such as numerical value, location, position, or significance. It is derived from the Latin word "punctum," which means a small dot or spot.
In the context of measurement, points are used as units to quantify numerical values on a scale. For example, in a grading system, points are assigned to evaluate academic performance. Similarly, in a sports competition, points are awarded to determine the winner or rank participants based on their scores or achievements.
Points also signify specific locations or positions on a surface or in space. This is commonly seen in geometry, where points are defined as having no length, width, or depth, and are applied to describe the exact position of objects or the intersection of lines and curves.
In addition, points can indicate the salience or significance of an idea or statement. In discussions or debates, individuals may state and support various points to argue their viewpoint. Similarly, in written works, authors can make different points to convey their message or argument.
Furthermore, points can be used to refer to elements or units in a list or a plan. In a bullet-pointed list, points are used to organize information in a concise and structured manner. In a business presentation or outline, points can outline the main topics or steps to be covered.
Overall, points have multiple uses, ranging from measuring values, denoting location, expressing significance, organizing information, or describing positional properties.
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Among seamen, flat pieces of plaited cordage tapering towards each end, used in reefing; on a railway, the switches or movable guiding-rails which admit a train on to a junctionline, to a siding, or from the one line of rail to the other; qualities, as good points.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for POINTS *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for POINTS
Etymology of POINTS
The word "points" has multiple etymologies depending on the context and usage. Here are a few possible origins:
1. From Old French: In the context of "points" meaning a lace or embroidery used for decoration, the word originates from Old French "pointe", meaning a stitch or a dot.
2. From Latin: In the context of "points" referring to units used in a measurement scale, it derives from the Latin word "punctum", meaning a prick or a point. This Latin root also gave rise to similar words in other Romance languages.
3. From Middle English: Regarding "points" meaning particular features or details, it comes from the Middle English word "pointe", which referred to a specific detail or aspect of something.
It's important to note that the etymology of "points" can differ across its various uses and meanings.
Idioms with the word POINTS
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score points off/over sb
The idiom "score points off/over someone" means to gain an advantage or achieve a personal victory over someone else, often by exploiting their mistakes, weaknesses, or failures. It refers to the act of using someone else's errors or misfortunes to improve one's own standing or image in a competitive or social context.
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earn/get/score brownie points
The idiom "earn/get/score brownie points" means to gain favor, approval, or positive recognition from someone, often by doing something good, helpful, or impressive. This expression suggests that the person earns or accumulates imaginary points as if they were being awarded in a game, just like the points earned in the Girl Guides/Girl Scouts organization for the small deeds or achievements that are considered praiseworthy.
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score points
The idiom "score points" refers to gaining an advantage or earning praise by doing or saying something that makes a favorable impression on others, especially in a competitive or social context. It often implies that the individual is trying to earn favor or gain an advantage by their actions or statements.
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earn/get brownie points
The idiom "earn/get brownie points" refers to receiving recognition, favor, or credit for doing something kind, helpful, or impressive, often with the intention of gaining an advantage or winning someone's approval. It is derived from the concept of earning points in the scouting organization, Girl Scouts, for good behavior, accomplishing tasks, or performing acts of service.
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earn brownie points
The idiom "earn brownie points" means to gain additional favor or approval, usually through doing something kind, helpful, or impressive. It refers to accumulating points or credits, similar to the "brownie points" earned by Girl Scouts for their achievements or good deeds. These points can be used to establish a positive reputation or gain benefits in social or professional settings.
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at swords' points
The idiom "at swords' points" means being in a state of conflict, disagreement, or literal confrontation. It refers to two or more people being ready or prepared to engage in a physical fight or argument.
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brownie points
The idiom "brownie points" refers to imaginary credits or favor gained through a good deed, supportive behavior, or doing something impressive. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe the accumulation of credit or favor, usually for the purpose of gaining an advantage or receiving interpersonal benefits.
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armed at all points
The idiom "armed at all points" typically means being prepared and ready for any situation or challenge. It refers to being fully equipped and ready to defend oneself or to face any obstacles with all necessary resources and strategies.
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have your good, plus, etc. points
The idiom "have your good, plus, etc. points" refers to expressing both the positive and negative aspects of a situation, argument, or opinion. It implies presenting a balanced perspective by acknowledging and highlighting the strong arguments from both sides or addressing the strengths and weaknesses of a particular position.
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the finer points of
The idiom "the finer points of" refers to the specific and often intricate details or aspects of a subject, skill, or activity. It implies focusing on the more nuanced or subtle elements that contribute to a greater understanding or mastery of something.
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have (someone's or something's) good points
The idiom "have (someone's or something's) good points" means to acknowledge or recognize the positive qualities or attributes of a person or thing, even if one does not necessarily agree with them entirely or find them to be totally favorable. It implies that there are certain aspects of the person or thing being considered that are commendable or beneficial.
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have (someone's or something's) plus points
The idiom "have (someone's or something's) plus points" refers to the positive or favorable aspects or qualities associated with a person or thing. It implies that there are certain advantages or strengths that make someone or something more appealing, valuable, or deserving of recognition.
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possession is nine points of the law
The idiom "possession is nine points of the law" means that the person who physically holds or possesses something has a stronger legal claim to it than someone who does not. It suggests that possessing something can give a significant advantage in legal disputes or ownership claims.
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possession is nine points/tenths/parts of the law
This idiom means that ownership or control over something often gives a person a strong advantage in disputes or legal matters related to that thing. It implies that possessing something makes it easier to defend one's ownership rights compared to someone who does not have possession.
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score a point/points (off/against/over somebody)
To "score a point/points (off/against/over somebody)" means to gain an advantage or achieve a victory over someone in a competition, argument, or confrontation. It implies outsmarting, outperforming, or surpassing someone in a particular situation.
Similar spelling words for POINTS
Conjugate verb Points
CONDITIONAL
I
would point
we
would point
you
would point
he/she/it
would point
they
would point
FUTURE
I
will point
we
will point
you
will point
he/she/it
will point
they
will point
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have pointed
we
will have pointed
you
will have pointed
he/she/it
will have pointed
they
will have pointed
PAST
I
pointed
we
pointed
you
pointed
he/she/it
pointed
they
pointed
PAST PERFECT
I
had pointed
we
had pointed
you
had pointed
he/she/it
had pointed
they
had pointed
PRESENT
I
point
we
point
you
point
he/she/it
points
they
point
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have pointed
we
have pointed
you
have pointed
he/she/it
has pointed
they
have pointed
I
am pointing
we
are pointing
you
are pointing
he/she/it
is pointing
they
are pointing
I
was pointing
we
were pointing
you
were pointing
he/she/it
was pointing
they
were pointing
I
will be pointing
we
will be pointing
you
will be pointing
he/she/it
will be pointing
they
will be pointing
I
have been pointing
we
have been pointing
you
have been pointing
he/she/it
has been pointing
they
have been pointing
I
had been pointing
we
had been pointing
you
had been pointing
he/she/it
had been pointing
they
had been pointing
I
will have been pointing
we
will have been pointing
you
will have been pointing
he/she/it
will have been pointing
they
will have been pointing
I
would have pointed
we
would have pointed
you
would have pointed
he/she/it
would have pointed
they
would have pointed
I
would be pointing
we
would be pointing
you
would be pointing
he/she/it
would be pointing
they
would be pointing
I
would have been pointing
we
would have been pointing
you
would have been pointing
he/she/it
would have been pointing
they
would have been pointing
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