PhrasesHub

On the button

    Definitions

      • precise timing
        To indicate that something is exactly on time or at the perfect moment

      • accuracy
        To describe something as being exactly right or correct

    Examples of On the button

    • The sales projections presented by the marketing team were right on the button.

      This means that the sales projections were accurate and spot on. The expression "on the button" implies that something is exactly as it should be or that it has been achieved with precision.

    • The clock in the train station is always on the button.

      This means that the clock is always accurate and keeps perfect time.

    • The chef presented the perfect dish - it was on the button in terms of flavor, texture, and presentation.

      Here, "on the button" refers to the dish being outstanding in every way. It implies that all the ingredients were balanced perfectly, and the dish was prepared with precision.

    • I set my alarm clock for 6:00 am, and it was on the button.

      In this example, "on the button" means that the alarm clock went off exactly when it was set to do so - there was no delay or error.

    • The stockbroker's prediction about the market trend turned out to be on the button.

      This idiom is often used to describe a forecast or prediction that is accurate and right on target. It means that the stockbroker's prediction was spot on and precisely what happened in the market.

    • The quarterback's pass found the receiver's hands perfectly, right on the button.

      In sports, particularly football (soccer) and American football, this idiom is commonly used to describe a perfectly executed pass, particularly the timing and accuracy of the throw. It means that the pass was executed flawlessly, leaving the receiver with no chance to miss the ball.

    • The singer's performance nailed the last note right on the button.

      In music, this idiom is used to describe a flawless and pitch-perfect performance. It means that the last note was hit with precision and accuracy, leaving the audience awestruck.

    • The politician's response to the question was spot on, right on the button.

      In a talk show or debate, this idiom is used to describe a politician's response that is accurate, timely, and to the point. It means that the politician's response was quick and concise, leaving no room for error or ambiguity.


    Conclusion

    "On the button" is used to emphasize precise timing and accuracy. It can be used to describe something that is perfectly on time or exactly right.

    Origin of "On the button"

    The origin of the idiom "on the button" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the world of sports, particularly in reference to boxing. In boxing, the term "on the button" is used to describe a punch that lands directly on the opponent's chin, indicating precision and accuracy. Over time, the term has been adopted into everyday language to describe anything that is perfectly timed or exactly right. Its use has expanded beyond the world of sports to encompass a wide range of situations where precision and accuracy are valued. Overall, "on the button" has become a popular idiom to emphasize the importance of being on time and being exact.