Make a Point Of – Meaning, Definition, and Usage Examples
Hey friends! Have you ever come across the phrase “make a point of” and wondered what it really means? You’re not alone. This little phrase pops up a lot in both casual conversations and formal writing, but it can sometimes be confusing. Today, I’ll break down exactly what “make a point of” means, how to use it correctly, and share plenty of examples, tips, and exercises to help you master it. By the end of this, you’ll be confidently using “make a point of” like a pro!
What Does “Make a Point of” Mean?
Let’s start with the basics. “Make a point of” is an idiomatic expression in English. It often describes someone’s action of deliberately doing something, usually regularly or with purpose. It emphasizes intention and importance behind an action.
Definition Breakdown:
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Make a point of | To deliberately do something regularly or to emphasize its importance. |
| Usage context | Often used to show that someone considers something important enough to do consistently or intentionally. |
Simple Words:
Making a point of something = intentionally doing it because it matters to you.
How to Use “Make a Point of” in Sentences?
Now, let’s see how you can use this phrase in real life. It’s quite flexible and can be used in various contexts—personal, professional, or casual.
Usage Guide:
- Subject + make a point of + verb
- The verb after “make a point of” is usually in the base form (without to).
Example: She makes a point of arriving early. - It can also be followed by nouns or phrases, depending on what you’re emphasizing.
Here are some common sentence structures:
- I make a point of always calling my parents on Sundays.
- He makes a point of getting to work early every day.
- They made a point of telling the truth in every situation.
Why Use “Make a Point of”?
Knowing when and why to use this phrase can really boost your communication skills. Here’s why it’s important:
- Shows Intentional Behavior: You’re emphasizing that an action is purposeful, not accidental.
- Highlights Priorities: It indicates what someone considers important or valuable.
- Adds Formality or Persuasiveness: It’s often used in professional or persuasive writing to stress commitment.
Real-life Examples:
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I make a point of exercising every morning. | I deliberately ensure I exercise daily. |
| She makes a point of always thanking her team. | She intentionally shows gratitude regularly. |
| The company makes a point of eco-friendly practices. | The company places special emphasis on environmental responsibility. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Using “Make a Point of”
To ensure you’re using this phrase correctly, follow these simple steps:
- Identify the action or behavior you want to emphasize.
- Use the structure: Subject + make a point of + verb (base form).
- Optional: Add specifics or time frames for clarity.
- Use for regular actions or important priorities.
Example:
- He makes a point of checking his emails first thing in the morning.
Tips for Success with “Make a Point of”
- Remember, the phrase emphasizes intentionality. Use it when you want to highlight deliberate actions.
- It’s perfect for showing commitment, habits, or values.
- Pair it with positive actions to motivate or praise behaviors.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Correct Approach | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Using “to” after the phrase | Make a point of doing | The phrase is followed by the base verb, not “to.” |
| Confusing “make a point of” with “make a point that” | Use “make a point that” when emphasizing a specific point or argument | “Make a point of” is about actions, not arguments. |
| Forgetting to include what is being emphasized | Be clear about the action or behavior | Specify what you or someone else is deliberately doing. |
Similar Variations & Related Phrases
- “Make sure to” – emphasizes certainty in doing something.
- “Put effort into” – highlights the effort behind an action.
- “Prioritize” – indicates what you consider most important.
- “Be intentional about” – more formal way to say someone deliberately does something.
Why Is Using “Make a Point of” Important?
Using “make a point of” correctly can make your speech and writing more precise and impactful. It shows commitment, intention, and seriousness about an action. Whether you’re emphasizing your dedication to healthy habits or highlighting someone’s deliberate choice, this phrase adds clarity and strength to your communication.
Practice Exercises
Let's cement your understanding with some engaging practice.
1. Fill-in-the-Blank:
a) I always ________ (make a point of / make a point that) double-checking my work before submitting.
b) They ________ (make a point of / make a point that) respecting all their clients.
c) She ________ (make a point of / make a point that) arriving on time to meetings.
2. Error Correction:
Identify and correct the mistakes in these sentences:
a) He makes a point to arrive early every day.
b) We made a point that to improve our skills.
c) She make a point of call her grandmother weekly.
3. Identification:
What is the main emphasis in these sentences?
a) I make a point of avoiding junk food.
b) She makes a point to listen carefully.
4. Sentence Construction:
Create sentences using “make a point of” about:
- Your hobbies
- Your work habits
- A friend’s behavior
5. Category Matching:
Match the phrases to the correct context:
- a) Make a point of —
- b) Make sure to —
- c) Put effort into —
Choices: Priority, Precaution, Habit
Summary & Takeaway
And there you have it! “Make a point of” is a versatile phrase that emphasizes intentionality and commitment. Whether you’re talking about daily habits or deliberate actions, understanding how to use this phrase correctly makes your language clearer and more impactful. Practice regularly—try including it in your speech or writing—and watch your communication skills improve.
Remember, using such expressions thoughtfully adds precision and style to your English. Stay deliberate, stay confident!
Thanks for hanging out with me today. Now go out and make a point of using “make a point of” in your next conversation or writing! Your language skills will thank you.