put finger on

put one's finger on something 

1. Lit. to touch something with one's finger. I put my finger on the button and pressed. Put your finger on this spot and push hard.

2. Fig. to identify and state the essence of something. That is correct! You have certainly put your finger on the problem. When she mentioned money, she really put her finger on the problem.

See also: finger, put

---

put your finger on something

to discover the exact reason why a situation is the way it is, especially when something is wrong (often negative) I know there's something wrong, but I can't put my finger on exactly what it is. I think you've just put your finger on the biggest problem facing the Conservative party in this election.

See lay a finger on, lift a finger, point the finger at

See also: finger, put

---

put your finger on something

to know the reason for something, esp. something that is a problem There's something wrong with his story, but I can't put my finger on what it is.

See also: finger, put