Pin down

verb

To be able to describe exactly.

She was not able to pin down the details of what happened.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To be able to describe exactly

Often appears as...

  • pin down the details
  • pin down the problem
verb

To keep someone in a position so they can't escape.

The two officers managed to pin down the robber till backup arrived.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To keep someone in a position so they can't escape

Often appears as...

  • pin down the opponent
  • pin down the enemy
verb

To make someone give clear details or make a definite decision.

We need to pin him down to an exact time for the meeting.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To make someone give clear details or make a definite decision

Often appears as...

  • pin down to a date
  • pin down to a time
verb

To stop someone from moving or escaping, often by using physical force.

The wrestler pinned down his opponent on the mat.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To stop someone from moving or escaping, often by using physical force

Often appears as...

  • pin down the wrestler
  • pin down the boxer

Usage tips

Sports

verb

To be able to describe exactly.

She was not able to pin down the details of what happened.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To be able to describe exactly

Often appears as...

  • pin down the details
  • pin down the problem
verb

To keep someone in a position so they can't escape.

The two officers managed to pin down the robber till backup arrived.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To keep someone in a position so they can't escape

Often appears as...

  • pin down the opponent
  • pin down the enemy
verb

To make someone give clear details or make a definite decision.

We need to pin him down to an exact time for the meeting.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To make someone give clear details or make a definite decision

Often appears as...

  • pin down to a date
  • pin down to a time
verb

To stop someone from moving or escaping, often by using physical force.

The wrestler pinned down his opponent on the mat.
Visual representation of "pin down" - To stop someone from moving or escaping, often by using physical force

Often appears as...

  • pin down the wrestler
  • pin down the boxer

Usage tips

Sports

Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "pin down"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Specificity Needed

Use 'pin down' when highlighting the importance of being precise or specific.

Illustration for Specificity Needed
The manager wanted to pin down the sales forecast figures.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Uncertain Situations

Ideal when someone is trying to understand unclear or complex situations.

Illustration for Uncertain Situations
It's hard to pin down the cause of the issue without more data.
Visual representation of the word "Pin down"

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