finish the point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "finish the point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to complete their argument or explanation. Example: "Before we move on to the next topic, could you please finish the point you were making about the budget?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

He lets his giggle finish the point.

The Guardian - Books

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Let -- let -- let me just finish the point.

The New York Times

I feel at times he's looked to finish the point a little bit too quickly".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's easier to finish the point like this," Bedanova said with a giggle.

The New York Times - Sports

The bigger the point, the more likely you were to see Stakhovsky charging forward to finish the point.

The New York Times

After that, coming forward to the net to finish the point consistently delivers the next highest winning percentage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"It's just about being more consistent and being able to finish the points.

The New York Times

Her greater variety and ability to finish the points by coming into the net is proving the difference.

The Guardian - Sport

And you think: 'How the fuck did I get here?'" Ethan finishes the point.

The Guardian - Film

Murray prevailed in 15-stroke rally with a forehand winner, with both players finishing the point near the net.

The New York Times

She finishes the point like a schoolteacher talking to pupils.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "finish the point" when you want to encourage someone to complete their explanation or argument fully before moving on to another topic.

Common error

Avoid interrupting someone before they can "finish the point". Instead, allow them to fully express their idea to ensure clear communication and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finish the point" functions as a polite imperative, often used to encourage a speaker to complete their thought or argument. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where the phrase is used in direct requests and reported speech scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "finish the point" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that prompts someone to complete their thought or argument. Ludwig AI analysis, together with collected examples, confirms its wide applicability in diverse contexts. It is considered neutral in formality, suitable for most conversations, whether in news, business, or general discussions. Alternatives like "complete the thought" or "conclude the argument" offer similar meanings. When using this phrase, remember to allow the speaker adequate time to fully express themselves and avoid premature interruption. Overall, "finish the point" is a valuable tool for ensuring clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete the thought

Replaces "finish" with "complete", focusing on the cognitive aspect of the statement.

conclude the argument

Emphasizes the closing of a debate or discussion.

wrap up the idea

Suggests a summary or concise ending.

bring the matter to a close

More formal, indicating a definitive end to the topic.

round out the discussion

Implies adding final details to complete the conversation.

expand on that

Suggests giving more details or clarification.

develop the idea further

Focuses on elaborating and exploring the concept more deeply.

state the conclusion

Highlights the act of presenting a final judgment or outcome.

bring it home

Informal way to say to finish the point.

deliver the punchline

To finish the point with a decisive or impactful result.

FAQs

How can I use "finish the point" in a sentence?

You can use "finish the point" to ask someone to complete their thought or argument, such as, "Before we move on, could you please finish the point you were making about the budget?"

What is another way to say "finish the point"?

Alternatives to "finish the point" include "complete the thought", "conclude the argument", or "wrap up the idea" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "finish the point"?

It's appropriate to use "finish the point" in situations where someone has started an explanation or argument but hasn't fully completed it, and you want them to continue.

Is "finish the point" formal or informal?

"Finish the point" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both professional and informal settings. However, consider using more formal alternatives like "bring the matter to a close" in highly formal contexts.