Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

put the finger on someone

idiomatic expression

/pʊt ðə ˈfɪŋɡər ɒn ˈsʌmwʌn/

Definition

To identify or accuse someone of a specific wrongdoing or crime.

Examples

After the investigation, the detective finally put the finger on the suspect.
She was careful not to put the finger on anyone until she had all the facts.
In his statement, he put the finger on his former partner for the mistakes in the project.

Meaning

This phrase is often used in contexts where someone is pointing out who is responsible for a particular action or fault, usually with a negative connotation.