get back to the point

USAGE SUMMARY

"get back to the point" is a correct and widely used phrase in written English.
It is typically used as a way to redirect a conversation that has strayed off topic or veered in a different direction. For example: "We started talking about going to the movies, but now we're discussing what we had for dinner last night. Let's get back to the point - did anyone decide when we're going to the movies?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Let's get back to the point".

The New Yorker

Let's get back to the point in hand.

The New Yorker

"You have to get back to the point where you are doing things spontaneously," Mazzilli said.

The New York Times - Sports

We need to accelerate that curve if we want to get back to the point of profitability".

The New York Times

To get back to the point raised earlier, the poor economy has been something of a blessing for the nonbelievers.

The New York Times

We're here to prove something and get back to the point where we think we should be.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Q: Getting back to the point of the question.

The Guardian

"But it would be good for baseball if we got back to the point of feeling that we were being run correctly, properly, professionally.

The New York Times - Sports

"Now I'm getting back to the point where I get on the mound, get the ball and fire it, let my abilities take over.

The New York Times - Sports

"I think I've gotten back to the point where I probably work, if not as hard, close to as hard," he added.

The New York Times - Sports

Also, getting back to the point about Andrey feeling he only needs the computer to survive, I think that's a lot of the reason young people interact so much online: despite all the concerns about privacy and lack thereof ruining lives, communicating through Facebook or chatting textually gives you a lot of control in shaping how you come across to your peers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get back to the point" when a conversation has strayed significantly from its original topic. It's a polite way to steer the discussion back to what matters most.

Common error

While "get back to the point" is generally appropriate, it can sound overly formal or even impatient in casual conversations with friends or family. Consider using gentler alternatives like "anyway" or "so, about that" in such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get back to the point" functions as a discourse marker or conversational strategy. It is used to redirect a conversation that has strayed from its primary subject matter. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "get back to the point" is a phrase used to redirect conversations that have veered off-topic, ensuring focus and efficiency. It is grammatically correct and functions as a discourse marker. While generally neutral, its tone can be perceived as impatient, so consider the context. Ludwig confirms its accurate usage, and its frequency is considered rare, primarily appearing in news and media sources. Alternative phrases include "return to the subject" and "let's refocus".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

return to the subject

Emphasizes a more formal return to the topic.

revert to the matter at hand

Suggests a formal and immediate return to the primary issue.

let's refocus

Offers a more collaborative suggestion to redirect the conversation.

stay on topic

Directly urges adherence to the current subject.

stick to the agenda

Suitable when there's a pre-defined plan for discussion.

come back to the main idea

Highlights the core concept that needs to be addressed.

get back on track

Implies a previous deviation from the intended course.

let's center our attention

A formal directive to concentrate on the main subject.

back to basics

A reminder to focus on fundamental aspects.

bring it back to the issue

A more emphatic way of refocusing the conversation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "get back to the point"?

To "get back to the point" means to return to the main topic of discussion after a deviation or digression. It's a way to refocus the conversation on the most important aspects.

How can I politely "get back to the point" in a conversation?

You can politely "get back to the point" by using phrases like "To return to the subject…", or "Let's refocus…" to gently guide the conversation back on track. You can also consider using alternatives like "stay on topic".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "get back to the point"?

It's appropriate to use "get back to the point" in professional settings, meetings, or discussions where staying on topic is important. However, use it sparingly in casual conversations, where it may sound impolite. Using alternatives such as "bring it back to the issue" can be also very emphatic.

Are there any negative connotations associated with saying "get back to the point"?

While generally neutral, saying "get back to the point" can sometimes come across as impatient or dismissive, especially if said abruptly. Consider the context and your relationship with the other person before using it. If you are in a meeting you can use "stick to the agenda".