On the dot

Meaning

The idiom "on the dot" means exactly or precisely on time. It is used to describe someone who arrives or does something at the exact moment it is due or expected.

Usage

• The train arrived on the dot at 6:00 PM.
• She finished her project on the dot and turned it in before the deadline.
• The meeting started on the dot, with everyone arriving right on time.
• My flight left on the dot, I had to rush to the airport.
• He always arrives on the dot for work, never late. The usage of "on the dot" can vary depending on the context. It can be used to describe punctuality in various situations such as travel, appointments, and meetings. It can also be used to describe the accuracy or precision of a task or measurement.

Roots and History

The idiom "on the dot" is believed to have originated from the practice of printing calendars with dots marking each day or hour. In the past, time was measured by the position of the sun, which could vary slightly depending on the location and time of year. By using dots to mark specific times, people were able to keep track of their schedules more accurately. Over time, the idiom has come to be associated with punctuality and precision in various contexts. It is now used to describe someone who arrives or does something at the exact moment it is due or expected.

Synonyms in English

• On schedule
• Precisely on time
• Right on cue
• Exactly as planned
• Tardy (used negatively)

Synonyms in other languages

• En temps réel (French) - literally "in real time"
• In vrijheid van tijd (Dutch) - literally "free from time"
• オンタイム (Japanese) - literally "on time"
• Пункт (Russian) - literally "mark" or "dot"
• وقتنا (Arabic) - literally "our time"

Similar Idioms

• bide time

• out of the closet

• by and by