to point out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to point out' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use 'to point out' to refer to drawing attention to a specific fact, condition, or situation. For example, “I would like to point out that the due date for the assignment was last week.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She's quick to point out her flaws.

The New York Times

You may want to point out omissions.

The Guardian - Sport

I have to point out one thing.

The Guardian - Business

But he wants to point out facts.

The Guardian

I guess I don't need to point out the symbolism.

The Guardian - Books

Some experts were quick to point out the study's shortcomings.

The New York Times

As Newt used to point out before he went gaga.

The New York Times

The authorities like to point out that incomes are rising.

The Economist

Our laughter, he didn't need to point out, is free.

The New Yorker

Madeira, they are quick to point out, is not Ibiza.

The New York Times - Travel

Muslims like to point out that Muhammad was a merchant.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to point out" when you want to politely draw attention to a specific detail or fact without sounding overly critical or confrontational. It's useful in providing constructive feedback or adding clarity to a discussion.

Common error

Avoid starting sentences with "to point out" when delivering harsh criticism or stating the obvious in an aggressive way. Overusing it in such situations can make you appear condescending and create unnecessary tension. Consider using a more neutral phrasing like "it's worth noting" or a direct, fact-based statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to point out" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used to introduce a remark, observation, or correction. It serves to direct the listener or reader's attention to a specific detail. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

20%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the infinitive phrase "to point out" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce observations, corrections, or additional information in a polite and non-confrontational manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent usage across various contexts. It is particularly common in "news & media" and "science", offering a neutral way to direct attention to specific details. While highly useful, it's important to avoid overuse in confrontational scenarios to maintain a constructive tone. Alternative phrases like "to highlight" or "to note" can offer subtle variations in emphasis and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to draw attention to

A more verbose but direct way of saying "to point out", emphasizing the act of attracting notice.

to call attention to

Similar to 'draw attention to', with a slightly more urgent or important tone.

to highlight

Emphasizes making something more noticeable or prominent, carrying a stronger sense of importance.

to emphasize

Stresses the significance or importance of something, adding more weight than a simple observation.

to indicate

Focuses on directing attention or signaling something, often less direct than "to point out".

to bring to notice

A more formal and somewhat archaic way to introduce something important.

to note

Suggests a formal observation or recording of information, often used in academic or business settings.

to specify

Focuses on providing precise details or conditions, which may be more technical than simply 'pointing out'.

to mention

Refers to briefly bringing something up, with less emphasis than "to point out".

to bring up

Suggests introducing a topic for discussion, which may be less direct than "to point out".

FAQs

How can I use "to point out" in a sentence?

"To point out" is typically used to introduce a specific fact or detail. For example, "I'd like "to point out" that the report is due tomorrow."

What are some alternatives to "to point out"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to highlight", "to indicate", "to mention", or "to note". The best choice depends on the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "to point out" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "to point out" when you want to introduce a detail, correction, or observation in a polite and non-confrontational way. It's useful for adding information or clarifying details without sounding accusatory.

Is there a difference between "to point out" and "to emphasize"?

Yes, while both introduce information, "to point out" is generally used for neutral observations, whereas "to emphasize" is used to highlight the importance or significance of something.