- Used to introduce or emphasize the main issue, the core reason, or the most important aspect of a situation or argument.
- Signals a return to or focus on the central idea, often after digression or to clarify complexity.
Explanation
Origin
- The point is...: Refers to the point of an argument or story – its central meaning or purpose. Straightforward semantic development.
- The thing is...: A more colloquial and slightly vaguer way to achieve the same goal. Thing acts as a placeholder for issue, problem, fact, or consideration. Common in spoken English for its flexibility.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Here's the deal... (Introducing the main point or arrangement)
- Real talk... (Signaling a serious or core point, newer slang)
- It's like this... (Setting up an explanation)
More Formal:
- The primary issue is...
- The key consideration is...
- Fundamentally...
- The critical factor is...
Situational Appropriateness
- Very common in both informal and semi-formal conversations.
- The point is can sound slightly more direct or assertive than The thing is.
- Both are generally acceptable in most work contexts, unless extreme formality is required.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally well-understood. Learners might just need practice recognizing them as signposts for the main idea rather than literal statements about a point or a thing.
Examples
- We can discuss details later. The point is, we need to decide yes or no today.
- I know you meant well, but the thing is, you didn't follow the instructions.
- He's smart, talented, and experienced. The point is, is he reliable?
- The thing is, I'm not sure I can afford it right now.
Dialogue
Student A: I studied for hours, I read all the chapters, I even made flashcards!
Student B: Yeah, you prepared a lot.
Student A: But the point is, I still failed the test!
Person 1: We could go to the beach, or maybe hiking, or perhaps visit the museum?
Person 2: Those all sound fun, but the thing is, I only have half a day free.
Person 1: Ah, right. That limits our options. Okay, museum it is.
Social Media Examples
- Blog Comment: You raise some interesting side arguments, but the point is, the author's main thesis remains unproven.
- Tweet: Everyone's debating the interface colour. The thing is, does the app actually work? #UX #Priorities
- Facebook Post: Worried about the cost of the trip? The point is we'll be making memories together!
Response Patterns
- Listeners typically wait attentively for the main point to be stated.
- Nods of understanding (Okay, Right, I see).
- Direct responses to the point once it's made (Okay, so we need to speed up, Right, rain would ruin the picnic).
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says The point is... / The thing is...:
- The speaker immediately states the central issue.
- The listener focuses on this core information.
After the main point is stated:
- Conversation usually centers on that point. Listeners might ask clarifying questions (Why is that the main point?, What are the implications?), agree (Good point), or disagree (I see, but...).
Conversation Starter
- No. Used mid-conversation to clarify, summarize, or emphasize.
Intonation
- Emphasis often falls on POINT or THING.
- Usually followed by a slight pause before stating the core issue.
- The tone is generally explanatory or clarifying.
- The POINT is... (pause) ... we're behind schedule.
- The THING is... (pause) ... it might rain.
Generation Differences
- Used commonly across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Universal in English-speaking regions.