1 C1 idiomatic formal
To emphasize or draw special attention to a quality, problem, or contrast
"The study's findings point up the urgent need for greater investment in public mental health services."
separable
point up
C1 formal separable transitive
To emphasize or make more noticeable a quality, problem, or distinction
In plain English
To make something clearer or more obvious so people pay attention to it
What does "point up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Chiefly used in formal, academic, or journalistic writing. Less common than 'point out' and rarely heard in everyday conversation. Often implies that a contrast, weakness, or irony is being stressed. More common in British English.
Words that pair with "point up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
contrast weakness irony paradox difference flaw necessity
How to conjugate "point up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
point up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
points up
he/she/it
Past simple
pointed up
yesterday
Past participle
pointed up
have + pp
-ing form
pointing up
continuous
Hear "point up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "point up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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