Meaning
To indicate something or draw attention to it.
Cultural Background
In American business culture, pointing out a mistake is seen as being 'proactive' and 'helpful'. British speakers often use 'point out' with hedging to be polite. Directly pointing out mistakes can be sensitive; often done in private. Pointing out facts is valued for efficiency and clarity.
Pronoun Placement
Always put 'it' or 'them' between 'point' and 'out'. 'Point it out' is the golden rule.
Softening the blow
If you are pointing out a mistake, start with 'I just wanted to point out...' to sound polite.
Meaning
To indicate something or draw attention to it.
Pronoun Placement
Always put 'it' or 'them' between 'point' and 'out'. 'Point it out' is the golden rule.
Softening the blow
If you are pointing out a mistake, start with 'I just wanted to point out...' to sound polite.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form.
Can you _____ out the best restaurant in town?
The base form is needed after 'can'.
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is correct?
Pronouns must go between the verb and the particle.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Match 'point out' with the correct definition.
Point out means to show or indicate.
Complete the dialogue.
A: I didn't see the sign. B: I'll _____ it _____ for you.
The phrase is 'point out'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesCan you _____ out the best restaurant in town?
The base form is needed after 'can'.
Which sentence is correct?
Pronouns must go between the verb and the particle.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Point out means to show or indicate.
A: I didn't see the sign. B: I'll _____ it _____ for you.
The phrase is 'point out'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. It works in both casual and formal settings.
Yes, but 'point at' is more common for physical objects.
English phrasal verbs with pronouns require the pronoun in the middle.
Not if you are polite. Use 'I'd like to point out...' to be safe.
'Point out' implies you are helping someone see something they missed.
No, you should say 'He pointed me out' (if you mean identifying a person) or 'He pointed that out to me'.
Yes, it is a separable phrasal verb.
Yes, it is very common in professional emails.
Yes, 'pointed out'.
Yes, 'He pointed out the way to the park.'
Related Phrases
Bring to attention
synonymTo make someone aware of something.
Highlight
synonymTo emphasize a detail.
Point at
contrastTo gesture physically.
Call out
similarTo identify or challenge.
