to the point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to the point" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom which means "precise, concise, or direct in language", and it can be used in any context where the speaker wants to communicate something in a clear, focused way. For example: "Let's keep our discussion to the point so we can make an informed decision more quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Get to the point.

Forbes

Sharp to the point.

The New York Times

"He's to the point.

The New York Times - Sports

Right to the point".

The New York Times - Sports

To the point and aggressive".

The New York Times - Magazine

Get right to the point.

The New Yorker

But back to the point.

The New Yorker

To the point of hubris?

The New York Times

They're efficient, to the point.

The New York Times

"He got right to the point.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

She was direct and to-the-point.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to the point" when you want to emphasize clarity and efficiency in communication. Ensure the context doesn't require more nuanced or elaborate explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "to the point" in overly informal settings where a more relaxed or conversational tone is preferred. Its directness can sometimes sound abrupt or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause by indicating the manner or extent to which an action is performed. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used to emphasize efficiency and clarity in communication, aligning with the provided examples where directness is valued.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

37%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to the point" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe communication that is direct, concise, and efficient. Ludwig's AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples across various contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, followed by wiki and formal business settings. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the context to avoid sounding overly formal in casual conversations. Remember to focus on essential information and eliminate unnecessary details to effectively communicate "to the point".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concise

Focuses specifically on brevity and lack of unnecessary detail.

succinct

Implies a brief and clearly expressed statement.

direct

Emphasizes straightforwardness and lack of evasion.

pertinent

Highlights the relevance and applicability of information.

relevant

Stresses the connection and importance to the matter at hand.

on topic

Indicates adherence to the subject under discussion.

focused

Emphasizes concentration and lack of distraction.

brief

Highlights the short duration or length of communication.

terse

Suggests a brief and sometimes abrupt manner of speaking.

aphoristic

Implies a concise and memorable expression of a general truth.

FAQs

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

You can use "to the point" to describe communication that is direct and efficient, such as, "His presentation was short and "to the point", covering all the key issues effectively."

What are some alternatives to "to the point"?

Alternatives include "concise", "succinct", or "direct". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be "to the point" or provide detailed explanations?

It depends on the situation and audience. Being "to the point" is efficient, but sometimes detailed explanations are necessary for clarity and understanding. Assess what your audience needs and tailor your communication accordingly.

How do I ensure my message is "to the point"?

Focus on the essential information, eliminate unnecessary details, and use clear, straightforward language. Before communicating, ask yourself what the key message is and ensure it is prominently featured.