On the dot Meaning in English
expression
ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈdɑt
ON thuh DAHT
ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /dˈɒt
ON thuh DOT
Definition
Exactly at the expected or stated time, not before or after.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both formal and informal speech, especially about time. Used mainly with clock times ("at 8:00 on the dot"). Don't confuse with 'sharp', which is similar. Rarely used outside of discussing time.
Spanish: en puntoPortuguese (BR): em pontoPortuguese (PT): em pontoChinese (Simplified): 准时 - 正点Chinese (Traditional): 準時 - 準點Hindi: ठीक समय परArabic: بالضبط في الوقتBengali: ঠিক সময়ে - সময়মতো ঠিকRussian: ровно - точно в срокJapanese: きっかり - ぴったりVietnamese: đúng giờ - chính xác (thời gian)Korean: 정각에 - 정확히 (시간)Turkish: tam vaktinde - tam saatindeUrdu: ٹھیک وقت پرIndonesian: tepat waktu - tepat jam
Example Sentences
Please arrive at eight on the dot.
basic
The train leaves at six on the dot every morning.
basic
We have to be there on the dot or we can't get in.
basic
She called me at ten on the dot—I couldn't believe it.
natural
Our meetings always start on the dot—don’t be late.
natural
The boss showed up on the dot for the interview.
natural