Dot the i’s and cross the t’s

Meaning

The idiom "dot the i’s and cross the t’s" means to do everything carefully and thoroughly, to make sure that all details are attended to, and to avoid any mistakes. This phrase is often used when someone wants to emphasize the importance of accuracy and precision in a task or activity.

Usage

• Make sure you dot the i's and cross the t's before submitting your final report to your boss.
• The lawyer advised us to dot the i’s and cross the t’s to avoid any legal issues down the line.
• You need to dot the i’s and cross the t’s if you want to get the job.
• Don't rush through the process; take your time to dot the i’s and cross the t’s.
• The project manager made sure that all the details were dotted and crossed before submitting the proposal.

Roots and History

The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 18th century. It may have come from the practice of marking the end of a line or stitch with a cross, indicating that the work was complete. The phrase "dot the i’s and cross the t's" may have evolved to refer to any task that required careful attention to detail. Over time, the idiom has become more widely used in general language to emphasize the importance of accuracy and precision in a wide range of tasks and activities.

Synonyms in English

• Double-check everything before submitting it
• Leave no stone unturned in your search for information
• Go over every detail with a fine-tooth comb
• Make sure you've covered all the bases
• Pay attention to all the little things

Synonyms in other languages

• 穿越(Japanese) - to pay attention to all the small details
• بלאדורן(Hebrew) - to cross all the t's and dot all the i's
• ציוקים מיועדים(Yiddish) - to go over everything with a fine-tooth comb
• عدل الشركة(Arabic) - to cross all the t's and dot all the i's in the company
• نבחוס הנפשים(Hebrew) - to pay attention to every detail of one's life

Similar Idioms

• straighten up and fly right

• pros and cons

• blind impulse