quite the point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite the point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is indeed significant or relevant to the discussion at hand. Example: "While some may disagree, I believe that the environmental impact of our actions is quite the point in this debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

But that's not quite the point.

The Economist

That was not quite the point.

The New York Times

Fair enough, but that's not quite the point.

The Guardian

But that is probably not quite the point of providing insurance to brokerage accounts.

The New York Times

And being reassuring and cosy isn't quite the point of DIY electro-terrorism, is it?

The Guardian - Music

But that wasn't quite the point; a transnational coalition on the electoral uses of a fear of migrants was.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

[Laughs.] Quite to the point.

The New Yorker

I can't quite see the point.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We didn't quite see the point of memorial fidelity.

The New Yorker

He couldn't quite see the point of it.

The Guardian

I couldn't quite see the point of anything.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "quite the point" to succinctly emphasize the central idea you wish to convey, ensuring clarity and focus in your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "quite the point" when introducing a completely new or tangential idea. Ensure the statement directly relates to the existing discussion to maintain coherence and avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite the point" functions primarily as an emphatic appositive. It serves to highlight or reinforce the significance of a particular idea or aspect within a broader discussion, often redirecting attention to its central relevance, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite the point" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that functions as an emphatic appositive. It's used to emphasize the relevance and importance of a particular aspect within a discussion, often to refocus attention on the central issue. As Ludwig's AI shows, the phrase is most frequently used in News & Media contexts and maintains a neutral to slightly formal register. While many phrases share a similar meaning, the best practice involves ensuring it is used in a relevant context to avoid confusion. Its consistent use in reputable sources contributes to a high expert rating, reinforcing its credibility and utility in clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exactly the point

This alternative emphasizes precision and accuracy in identifying the central idea.

precisely the matter

This option highlights the crucial issue at hand, carrying a tone of exactness.

truly the crux

This emphasizes the most vital or decisive aspect, suggesting a critical point.

the real issue

Shifts the focus to the genuine problem or concern, often implying other issues are distractions.

the heart of the matter

Draws attention to the core essence, suggesting a deep and fundamental aspect.

the core of the argument

Directs attention to the central supporting element for a specific idea or thesis.

the essence

Focuses on the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.

the key aspect

Highlights a particularly important feature or element.

fundamentally important

Emphasizes the bedrock level of significance something holds.

vitally important

Draws attention to the necessity of something, stressing its life-or-death importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "quite the point" to redirect a discussion to its most relevant aspect. For example, "While the details are interesting, that's not "quite the point"; the main issue is resource allocation."

What phrases are similar to "quite the point"?

Alternatives include "exactly the point", "the real issue", or "the heart of the matter", which emphasize different aspects of relevance and importance.

Is "quite the point" formal or informal?

"Quite the point" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal, suitable for professional and news-related contexts. It is appropriate for conveying importance without being overly casual.

When should I avoid using "quite the point"?

Avoid using "quite the point" if you intend to introduce a completely unrelated topic. It works best when clarifying or emphasizing an existing, central idea, rather than derailing the conversation. Ensure there's a logical connection to what's already being discussed.