Idiom
On the dot
On the dot means at exactly the stated time, not a minute early or late.
How people use it
It usually follows a time: the train leaves at 7:15 on the dot. It can also stand alone after a verb: she arrived right on the dot. It stresses punctuality and is often used as praise or as a warning. It is informal to neutral. Similar phrases include sharp (at five sharp) and on the nose, which is mostly American.
Examples
- The museum doors open at nine on the dot, so get there early.
- Grace always logs in to the morning meeting right on the dot.
- The bus came at 6:40 on the dot, just like the schedule said.
Where it comes from
It probably refers to the dots or marks on a clock face that show the hours and minutes: when the hand is on the dot, it is exactly that time. The phrase is recorded from the early 1900s.
Check yourself
1. If a class starts at ten on the dot, when does it start?
Answer: Exactly at ten. On the dot means at precisely the stated time.
2. Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Answer: The fireworks started at 9:00 on the dot.. On the dot means exactly on time, so being an hour late or a vague time does not fit.
Word game fan? See every word hiding in DOT.