De puntjes op de i zetten
Example: We moeten de puntjes op de i zetten voor het feest begint.
Definition
"De puntjes op de i zetten" means to finalize details or make everything perfect and clear, especially before an event or task begins. It involves paying attention to small but important aspects to ensure completeness and accuracy.
Etymology
The phrase "de puntjes op de i zetten" literally translates to 'putting the dots on the i's.' It originates from the careful act of writing, where dotting the letter 'i' was the final step to complete a word neatly. Did you know? This expression metaphorically emphasizes finishing touches that make a big difference.
Learn to use this expression actively
"De puntjes op de i zetten" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
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to dot the i's and cross the t's