What are the definitions of “point out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make someone aware of something.
He POINTED OUT that I only had two weeks to get the whole thing finished.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “point out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb point out is to make someone aware of something or to draw attention to a specific fact or detail. It is often used when someone wants to highlight something important or correct a mistake.
What are the different verb forms of “point out”?
| Root Verb | point out |
| Third Person Singular Present | points out |
| Present Participle | pointing out |
| Simple Past | pointed out |
| Past Participle | pointed out |
Example
She pointed out the mistake in my calculations.
Example
He always points out the interesting facts in the articles he reads.
Example
My teacher is pointing out the errors in my essay.
Example
Yesterday, she pointed out the beautiful sunset to me.
Example
The tour guide pointed out the historical landmarks during our trip.
What kind of phrasal verb is “point out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“point out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She pointed out the mistake in my calculations.
Example
He pointed out the beautiful sunset to me.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“point out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She pointed out the mistake in my calculations.
Example
He pointed out the beautiful sunset to me.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “point out”?
Good things to know
Does “point out” have an informal or formal tone?
Point out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as academic discussions, business meetings, or presentations.
