Definition of On the spot

1. Adverb. Without delay or immediately. "Thought they were going to shoot us down on the spot"

2. Adverb. In a difficult situation. "That question really put him on the spot"

3. Adverb. At the place in question; there. "It had to be decided by the man on the spot"

Definition of On the spot

1. Adverb. (idiomatic) At that very moment; right away. ¹

2. Adverb. (idiomatic) Having to answer or decide without warning or preparation. ¹

3. Adverb. (idiomatic) In a particular place. ¹

¹ Source: wiktionary.com

Lexicographical Neighbors of On The Spot

on the receiving end
on the record
on the right track
on the rise
on the road
on the rocks
on the ropes
on the run
on the same page
on the same wavelength
on the shelf
on the side
on the skids
on the sly
on the spectrum
on the spot (current term)
on the spur of the moment
on the square
on the street
on the table
on the take
on the tap
on the tip of one's tongue
on the toss of a coin
on the town
on the trot
on the turps
on the up
on the up-and-up
on the up and up

Literary usage of On the spot

Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:

1. Dictionary of National Biography by LESLIE. STEPHEN (1892)
"... Memorable Men and YOL. XIII. 7. ' The History of Industrial Exhibitions,', London, 1802, 8vo, in 12 parts. K 'Tuo Things drawn on the spot, 1803-1806. ..."

2. An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation by Jeremy Bentham (1879)
"That whicl from, from any opposition that may be made may result - ,, , on the spot: persons on the spot ; that I.Opposition ..."

3. Chronological History of the West Indies by Thomas Southey (1827)
"... sent in by Brigadier-General Maitland, at five o'clock, to propose their terms at nine; when Lieutenant-General Trigg and self being on the spot, ..."

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