Stretch a point
verb
To allow something that is not normally acceptable.
I usually don't allow cake before dinner, but since it's your birthday, I'll stretch a point.
Often appears as...
- stretch a point for
- stretch a point to
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
verb
To allow something that is not normally acceptable.
I usually don't allow cake before dinner, but since it's your birthday, I'll stretch a point.
Often appears as...
- stretch a point for
- stretch a point to
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Exceptional Cases
Use 'stretch a point' when someone bends rules for special occasions or one-off situations.
The librarian stretched a point and let me return the book late without a fine, just this once.
Pro Tip 2/3Slight Change
It implies a small or minor deviation from the norm, not a major change.
I'll stretch a point and allow sneakers at work today, but dress shoes are required tomorrow.
Pro Tip 3/3Personal Favor
Often used when someone gives you a break or favor that they wouldn't normally consider.
I know I'm late, but can you stretch a point and let me take the test?
Pro Tip 1/3Exceptional Cases
Use 'stretch a point' when someone bends rules for special occasions or one-off situations.
The librarian stretched a point and let me return the book late without a fine, just this once.
Pro Tip 2/3Slight Change
It implies a small or minor deviation from the norm, not a major change.
I'll stretch a point and allow sneakers at work today, but dress shoes are required tomorrow.
Pro Tip 3/3Personal Favor
Often used when someone gives you a break or favor that they wouldn't normally consider.
I know I'm late, but can you stretch a point and let me take the test?
Pro Tip 1/3Exceptional Cases
Use 'stretch a point' when someone bends rules for special occasions or one-off situations.
The librarian stretched a point and let me return the book late without a fine, just this once.
Pro Tip 2/3Slight Change
It implies a small or minor deviation from the norm, not a major change.
I'll stretch a point and allow sneakers at work today, but dress shoes are required tomorrow.
Pro Tip 3/3Personal Favor
Often used when someone gives you a break or favor that they wouldn't normally consider.
I know I'm late, but can you stretch a point and let me take the test?
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