on the spot — immediately; without delay or preparation
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: immediately; without delay or preparation
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɑːn ðə spɑːt/
Example Sentences
- When asked about his secret recipe, the chef was put on the spot and started sweating.
- She solved the math problem on the spot and impressed everyone.
- The ice cream truck broke down on the spot, leaving disappointed kids everywhere.
on the spot
ADVERB[/ɑːn ðə spɑːt/]
immediately; without delay or preparation
The teacher put him on the spot with a surprise question.
When the kitchen got hot, the chef cooked on the spot!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'on the spot' originates from Middle English, where 'spot' meant a point or location. The expression developed to denote immediate action or presence at a specific place, combining the preposition 'on' with the locational noun 'spot'.
Breakdown
on (preposition: positioned above or at) + the (definite article) + spot (noun: a place, point, or location). The phrase literarily means 'at that place' but idiomatically expresses immediacy and presence.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“When asked about his secret recipe, the chef was put on the spot and started sweating.”
“She solved the math problem on the spot and impressed everyone.”
“The ice cream truck broke down on the spot, leaving disappointed kids everywhere.”
“He quit his job on the spot after his boss insulted him.”
📚Related Words
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