pointed out that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'pointed out that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to make it clear that you are referring to something that someone has said or suggested. For example: The speaker pointed out that there is a need to improve the public transport system.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But he pointed out that was five years ago.

BBC

We pointed out that we were riding empty-handed.

The New York Times

Drinan pointed out that the Pres.

The New Yorker

Justin pointed out that it was wintertime.

The New York Times

(It was pointed out that he did).

The New Yorker

Miliband pointed out that it wasn't.

The Guardian

@john_self simply pointed out that "Brian CAN".

The Guardian

Royalists pointed out that this was absurd.

The New Yorker

Someone pointed out that Christmas was coming.

The New York Times

"I pointed out that we had not".

The New York Times

Miss Brooks' initial speech pointed out that "..

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pointed out that" to introduce a previously unnoticed or less obvious piece of information, creating a sense of discovery or clarification.

Common error

While useful, relying heavily on "pointed out that" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "indicated", "noted", or "mentioned" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pointed out that" functions as a reporting verb phrase, used to introduce a statement, observation, or fact that someone has brought to attention. This often suggests the information was previously overlooked or less obvious. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pointed out that" is a versatile and frequently used reporting verb phrase, suitable for various writing contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and serves to highlight specific information, observations, or facts that someone has brought to attention. While "pointed out that" is commonly used in neutral and informal settings, remember to balance it with alternative phrases like "indicated that" or "mentioned that" in more formal contexts. As the linguistic analysis shows, its frequency in news media, science, and encyclopedias reflects its widespread applicability. Using it thoughtfully enhances clarity and emphasizes the importance of the information you're conveying.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indicated that

Implies a more subtle conveyance of information compared to a direct pointing out.

noted that

Suggests a more formal or official observation, lacking the conversational tone of "pointed out that".

mentioned that

Emphasizes the act of bringing something up in conversation, possibly incidentally.

stated that

Conveys a formal declaration or assertion of a fact or opinion.

observed that

Highlights the act of noticing or perceiving something and then communicating it.

remarked that

Indicates a casual or brief comment on a particular subject.

emphasized that

Stresses the importance or significance of the information being communicated.

highlighted that

Draws attention to a specific aspect or detail, suggesting it's particularly important.

drew attention to the fact that

A more verbose alternative that stresses the act of making someone aware of something.

brought to light that

Suggests uncovering or revealing previously unknown information.

FAQs

How can I use "pointed out that" in a sentence?

You can use "pointed out that" to introduce a fact, observation, or piece of information that someone has brought to attention. For example, "The analyst "pointed out that" the company's profits had declined sharply in the last quarter."

What are some alternatives to "pointed out that"?

Alternatives to "pointed out that" include "indicated that", "noted that", "mentioned that", and "stated that". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "pointed out that" formal or informal?

"Pointed out that" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal writing. However, for highly formal contexts, alternatives like "observed that" or "stated that" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "pointed out that" and "stated that"?

"Pointed out that" implies bringing attention to something perhaps overlooked, while "stated that" simply conveys that information was presented. For example, "He "pointed out that" the evidence was circumstantial", suggesting the listener hadn't fully considered it. "He "stated that" he was leaving", simply conveys his intention.