What is pointed? Pronunciation and usage in English

pointed means . Learn how to pronounce and use pointed through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of pointed

pointedadjective

/ˈpɔɪntɪd/
Definition & pronunciation of pointed

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "pointed." It's a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

Here's the most common and accepted pronunciation:

  • ** /ˈpɔɪntɪd/ (POYNT-id)**

Let's break that down:

  • ˈpɔɪnt - This part sounds like "boynt." The "oi" makes a long "o" sound (like in “boat”). The "t" is silent.
  • -ɪd - This is a standard "-ed" ending, pronounced like "id."

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: Put the stress on the first syllable ("POYNT").
  • "oi" sound: Really focus on that long "o" sound in "point." It's crucial.
  • Silent "t": Don't pronounce the "t" at the end of "point."

Resources to hear it:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some examples of how it's used in a sentence?

Usage and examples with the word pointed in English

Let's break down how to use the word "pointed" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown by category:

1. As an Adjective (Describing Shape & Features):

  • Sharp: This is the most common meaning. It describes something having a sharp tip or edge.

    • Example: “He used a pointed tool to carve the wood.”
    • Example: “The mountain had a pointed peak.”
    • Example: “The artist used a pointed brush for detailed work.”

  • Distinctive/Notable: It can also describe something that stands out clearly.

    • Example: "She had a pointed sense of humor." (Meaning she was witty and sometimes sarcastic.)
    • Example: “He made a pointed comment about her outfit.” (Meaning the comment was critical and noticeable.)
    • Example: “The evidence pointed to his guilt.” (Meaning it suggested he was guilty.)

2. As a Verb (Describing Action):

  • To direct/indicate: To show or direct something.

    • Example: “The arrow pointed towards the north.”
    • Example: “The speaker pointed out the key flaws in the plan.”
    • Example: "He pointed at the map to show us the route."

  • To show a finger at (often implying accusation): A more informal use.

    • Example: “She pointed her finger at him and scolded him.”

3. As a Noun (Rare, but exists):

  • A point: A specific location or item.
    • Example: "He reached a pointed decision." (meaning he made a firm decision)
    • Example: “He gave a pointed look at her.” (a stern or critical look)

Here's a table to summarize:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Sharp, having a pointed tip A pointed pencil
Adjective Distinctive, noticeable A pointed observation
Verb To direct/indicate He pointed to the sign.
Verb To show with a finger She pointed at the mistake.
Noun A point He made a pointed remark.

Tips for Using "Pointed" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "pointed" depends heavily on how it’s used in a sentence.
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms depending on the desired shade of meaning. For example:
    • Sharp: acute, sharp-edged
    • Direct: indicative, suggestive
    • Critical: pointed, stinging

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a description of a landscape, a story, an argument?)
  • Can you provide a sentence you're unsure about where you're using "pointed"?

Synonyms for the word pointed

Practice with vocabulary pointed

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During the quarterly review, the manager made a very _____ remark about the need for improved efficiency.
  2. The archaeological excavation site was carefully marked with several long, wooden stakes, each with a _____ tip.
  3. The team leader requested more _____ details regarding the budget allocation for the next phase of the project.
  4. All available resources were _____ towards developing the new software feature.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Her feedback on the presentation was incredibly _____, addressing the core weaknesses without ambiguity. A) vague B) pointed C) insightful D) meandering E) incisive

  2. The craftsman carefully sculpted the top of the monument, giving it a tall, _____ spire that reached towards the sky. A) rounded B) blunt C) conical D) flat E) pointed

  3. In the intense debate, the senator delivered a _____ argument that left his opponents with little room for rebuttal. A) rambling B) circuitous C) irrelevant D) focused E) pointed

  4. The consultant provided a very _____ analysis of the market trends, highlighting key opportunities. A) ambiguous B) general C) comprehensive D) broad E) detailed

  5. To achieve our quarterly objectives, our efforts must be consistently _____ towards increasing customer satisfaction. A) diverted B) directed C) scattered D) focused E) diffused

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He made some very direct and critical comments about the team's recent underperformance. Rewrite the sentence, using "pointed".

  2. The latest economic data clearly indicated a significant decline in consumer spending. Rewrite the sentence, using a phrasal verb with "point".

  3. Her response to the challenging question was very precise and direct, getting straight to the heart of the issue. Rewrite the sentence, replacing "precise and direct" with a single, suitable word that is NOT "pointed".

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. pointed
  2. pointed
  3. specific
  4. directed

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B) pointed, C) insightful, E) incisive
  2. C) conical, E) pointed
  3. D) focused, E) pointed
  4. C) comprehensive, E) detailed
  5. B) directed, D) focused

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He made some very pointed comments about the team's recent underperformance.
  2. The latest economic data pointed to a significant decline in consumer spending.
  3. Her response to the challenging question was very incisive.

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