Take point: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Military position}} |
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{{for|the South Korean film|Take Point}} |
{{for|the South Korean film|Take Point}} |
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{{redirects|Point man}} |
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[[File:US Navy 080110-N-6891S-184 U.S. Army Soldiers from Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 502 Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, take point during Operation NANNO II.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|U.S. Army |
[[File:US Navy 080110-N-6891S-184 U.S. Army Soldiers from Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 502 Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, take point during Operation NANNO II.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|U.S. Army soldiers take point during an operation in Baghdad]] |
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{{War}} |
{{War}} |
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To '''take point''', '''walk point''', be '''on point''', or be a '''point man''' is to assume the first and most exposed position in a combat military formation,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/17927.aspx |title=Combat Shotgun - British Army Website |accessdate=2012-09-28 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101114190724/http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/17927.aspx |archivedate=2010-11-14 }}</ref> that is, the leading soldier or unit advancing through hostile or unsecured territory.<ref name="knives">{{cite web|url=http://www.knives.com/language.html |title=Céileachair, Daithí Ó (2005) "Language and Knives" |author= |date= |website=Knives.com |access-date=}}</ref><ref>[http://www.bartleby.com/61/8/P0400800.html "Point" definition 30a & b ''The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language'' (4th ed.) 2000]</ref> The term can be applied to [[infantry]] or mechanized columns. The soldier, vehicle, or unit on point is frequently the first to take hostile fire. The inherent risks of taking point create a need for constant and extreme operational alertness. However, [[ambush]]es often intend to let the point element past the prime [[kill zone]] in order to be maximally effective. Point position is often rotated periodically so as not to overtax the individual soldier/unit. |
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==History== |
==History== |
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The term was used in the 19th century [[American Old West]] when the lead [[cowboy]] at the front of a herd of cattle was known as the '''pointer''' or point man. It may have come into common use because many of the cowboys in the late 1800s were veterans of the [[American Civil War]]. In cavalry terminology, the men scouting ahead of the main force were said to be "riding point". This use was first recorded in 1903.<ref name = "Mavens" /> |
The term was used in the 19th century [[American Old West]] when the lead [[cowboy]] at the front of a herd of cattle was known as the '''pointer''' or point man. It may have come into common use because many of the cowboys in the late 1800s were veterans of the [[American Civil War]]. In cavalry terminology, the men scouting ahead of the main force were said to be "riding point". This use was first recorded in 1903.<ref name = "Mavens" /> |
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The concept seems to have been introduced to the American military at [[West Point]] by Professor Dennis H. Mahan, who taught most of the top officers on both sides in the Civil War. In his ''Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861)'', he discussed the use of the column or V-shaped advance guard by the Greeks and Romans: |
The concept seems to have been introduced to the American military at [[West Point]] by [[Dennis Hart Mahan|Professor Dennis H. Mahan]], who taught most of the top officers on both sides in the [[American Civil War|Civil War]]. In his ''Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861)'', he discussed the use of the column or V-shaped advance guard by the Greeks and Romans: |
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{{quote|Among the orders of battles among the ancients, that known as the wedge, or boar's head, is the most celebrated. In this disposition, the '''point''', or '''head''', is formed of a subdivision of the [[Phalanx formation|phalanx]] of greater or less strength, according to circumstances; this being supported by two, three, and four subdivisions of the same force, one behind another.}} |
{{quote|Among the orders of battles among the ancients, that known as the wedge, or boar's head, is the most celebrated. In this disposition, the '''point''', or '''head''', is formed of a subdivision of the [[Phalanx formation|phalanx]] of greater or less strength, according to circumstances; this being supported by two, three, and four subdivisions of the same force, one behind another.}} |
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In the section on ''Advanced Guards and Advanced Posts'', Professor Mahan introduced the definition of the point man to the future American generals: |
In the section on ''Advanced Guards and Advanced Posts'', [[Dennis Hart Mahan|Professor Mahan]] introduced the definition of the point man to the future American generals: |
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{{quote|From these indications of the manner of distributing the troops of the advanced-guard, the following general dispositions, adapted to ordinary circumstances of locality may be gathered. The apex, or most advanced point, may be formed of a staff, or other intelligent officer, under the escort of a few horsemen...}} |
{{quote|From these indications of the manner of distributing the troops of the advanced-guard, the following general dispositions, adapted to ordinary circumstances of locality may be gathered. The apex, or most advanced point, may be formed of a staff, or other intelligent officer, under the escort of a few horsemen...}} |
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"Take point" came into common use during [[World War II]] by American ground forces; its use continued through the [[Korean War]], [[Vietnam War]] and [[Iraq War]]. This idiom, "take point" has entered the vernacular in many ways. "Taking point" is often used in describing pathfinding behaviors in non-military situations, or simply to mean "lead the challenge", often in a business context.<ref name="knives" /><ref>[http://www.proz.com/glossary-translations/english-to-dutch-translations/87 "to walk point" English to Dutch Marketing/Market Research idioms];</ref> In some cases it has replaced the idiom "[[stalking horse]]". |
"Take point" came into common use during [[World War II]] by American ground forces; its use continued through the [[Korean War]], [[Vietnam War]] and [[Iraq War]]. This idiom, "take point" has entered the vernacular in many ways. "Taking point" is often used in describing pathfinding behaviors in non-military situations, or simply to mean "lead the challenge", often in a business context.<ref name="knives" /><ref>[http://www.proz.com/glossary-translations/english-to-dutch-translations/87 "to walk point" English to Dutch Marketing/Market Research idioms];</ref> In some cases it has replaced the idiom "[[stalking horse]]". |
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More recently (possibly originating from the late 1960s), the term has been extended to describe someone at the forefront of an issue. It can be used to refer to both the defender or the attacker of the position or idea. This use is most often |
More recently (possibly originating from the late 1960s), the term has been extended to describe someone at the forefront of an issue. It can be used to refer to both the defender or the attacker of the position or idea. This use is most often found in political contexts, as the point man is usually in the public eye. |
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In recent American youth (especially [[hip hop]]) culture, the idiom "on point" refers either to someone who possesses abundant and various qualities of competence, leadership or style, or to specific acts which demonstrate such qualities.<ref>[http://web.mit.edu/cultureshock/fa2003/essays/lashaunta.html Urban Wear: Hip-Hop Culture as Identity] by Lashaunta Santos at MIT's [http://web.mit.edu/cultureshock/fa2003/index.html Cultureshock] group weblog</ref><ref>[http://www.ukhh.com/features/interviews/dominant_g/index2.html Interview with DominantG] on [http://www.ukhh.com/index.html UKHH.com]</ref> Especially profound lyrics, a particular musical performance or a philosophical position might be referred to as "on point." This varies somewhat from the traditional meaning of the phrase, "directly applicable or dispositive of the matter under consideration."<ref>[http://www.answers.com/on+point&r=67 On Point definition] at [http://www.answers.com/ Answers.com]</ref> |
In recent American youth (especially [[hip hop]]) culture, the idiom "on point" refers either to someone who possesses abundant and various qualities of competence, leadership or style, or to specific acts which demonstrate such qualities.<ref>[http://web.mit.edu/cultureshock/fa2003/essays/lashaunta.html Urban Wear: Hip-Hop Culture as Identity] by Lashaunta Santos at MIT's [http://web.mit.edu/cultureshock/fa2003/index.html Cultureshock] group weblog</ref><ref>[http://www.ukhh.com/features/interviews/dominant_g/index2.html Interview with DominantG] on [http://www.ukhh.com/index.html UKHH.com]</ref> Especially profound lyrics, a particular musical performance or a philosophical position might be referred to as "on point." This varies somewhat from the traditional meaning of the phrase, "directly applicable or dispositive of the matter under consideration."<ref>[http://www.answers.com/on+point&r=67 On Point definition] at [http://www.answers.com/ Answers.com]</ref> |
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===Other uses=== |
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* In (American) politics, a point man is someone leading the defense of a political position. |
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* In the commission of crime, usually a [[robbery]], a "point man" is a lookout. |
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* [[Gun dog]]s and [[hunting dog]]s, such as the [[pointing breed]], "makes/comes to a point" by standing rigid and facing the game. |
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* In [[ice hockey]] the point man is the defense man on the blue line of the offensive position in the "attacking zone", meaning that he is usually farther from the net than any other skater (almost the exact opposite of what point man means in the military); in [[basketball]] the [[point guard]] directs the team's offense in the front court.<ref name = "Mavens" /> |
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* In [[ballet]], the term [[en pointe]] refers to the act of standing on the points of the toes while performing steps |
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==References== |
==References== |
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* [http://www.randomhouse.com/wotd/index.pperl?date=20001017 Random House Word of the Day Entry on point man] |
* [http://www.randomhouse.com/wotd/index.pperl?date=20001017 Random House Word of the Day Entry on point man] |
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* [http://www.usregulars.com/mahan01.html Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861)] |
* [http://www.usregulars.com/mahan01.html Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861)] |
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* [http://www.mountainx.com/features/2006/0809kieffer.php ''Walking Point'']'': The energetic journey of Edwin Kieffer,'' by Jeff Brodsky |
* [http://www.mountainx.com/features/2006/0809kieffer.php ''Walking Point'']'': The energetic journey of Edwin Kieffer,'' by Jeff Brodsky on August 9, 2006 [http://www.mountainx.com/index.php Mountain Xpress] (accessed Sept. 23, 2006) |
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[[Category:Maneuver tactics]] |
[[Category:Maneuver tactics]] |
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Latest revision as of 22:01, 4 November 2022
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To take point, walk point, be on point, or be a point man is to assume the first and most exposed position in a combat military formation,[1] that is, the leading soldier or unit advancing through hostile or unsecured territory.[2][3] The term can be applied to infantry or mechanized columns. The soldier, vehicle, or unit on point is frequently the first to take hostile fire. The inherent risks of taking point create a need for constant and extreme operational alertness. However, ambushes often intend to let the point element past the prime kill zone in order to be maximally effective. Point position is often rotated periodically so as not to overtax the individual soldier/unit.
History
[edit]Origins
[edit]The term might be related to the Middle English phrase "in point", which meant "in immediate danger or peril".[4] The modern use of the term derives from military tactics. During a military patrol or infantry operation, the point man is a navigator who walks several meters out in front of everyone else and is likely to be the first one to encounter enemy soldiers. It is a hazardous position that requires alertness and ability to deal with unexpected attacks.
The term was used in the 19th century American Old West when the lead cowboy at the front of a herd of cattle was known as the pointer or point man. It may have come into common use because many of the cowboys in the late 1800s were veterans of the American Civil War. In cavalry terminology, the men scouting ahead of the main force were said to be "riding point". This use was first recorded in 1903.[4]
The concept seems to have been introduced to the American military at West Point by Professor Dennis H. Mahan, who taught most of the top officers on both sides in the Civil War. In his Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861), he discussed the use of the column or V-shaped advance guard by the Greeks and Romans:
Among the orders of battles among the ancients, that known as the wedge, or boar's head, is the most celebrated. In this disposition, the point, or head, is formed of a subdivision of the phalanx of greater or less strength, according to circumstances; this being supported by two, three, and four subdivisions of the same force, one behind another.
In the section on Advanced Guards and Advanced Posts, Professor Mahan introduced the definition of the point man to the future American generals:
From these indications of the manner of distributing the troops of the advanced-guard, the following general dispositions, adapted to ordinary circumstances of locality may be gathered. The apex, or most advanced point, may be formed of a staff, or other intelligent officer, under the escort of a few horsemen...
Modern use
[edit]"Take point" came into common use during World War II by American ground forces; its use continued through the Korean War, Vietnam War and Iraq War. This idiom, "take point" has entered the vernacular in many ways. "Taking point" is often used in describing pathfinding behaviors in non-military situations, or simply to mean "lead the challenge", often in a business context.[2][5] In some cases it has replaced the idiom "stalking horse".
More recently (possibly originating from the late 1960s), the term has been extended to describe someone at the forefront of an issue. It can be used to refer to both the defender or the attacker of the position or idea. This use is most often found in political contexts, as the point man is usually in the public eye.
In recent American youth (especially hip hop) culture, the idiom "on point" refers either to someone who possesses abundant and various qualities of competence, leadership or style, or to specific acts which demonstrate such qualities.[6][7] Especially profound lyrics, a particular musical performance or a philosophical position might be referred to as "on point." This varies somewhat from the traditional meaning of the phrase, "directly applicable or dispositive of the matter under consideration."[8]
References
[edit]- ^ "Combat Shotgun - British Army Website". Archived from the original on 2010-11-14. Retrieved 2012-09-28.
- ^ a b "Céileachair, Daithí Ó (2005) "Language and Knives"". Knives.com.
- ^ "Point" definition 30a & b The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (4th ed.) 2000
- ^ a b "The Mavens' Word of the Day: point man".
- ^ "to walk point" English to Dutch Marketing/Market Research idioms;
- ^ Urban Wear: Hip-Hop Culture as Identity by Lashaunta Santos at MIT's Cultureshock group weblog
- ^ Interview with DominantG on UKHH.com
- ^ On Point definition at Answers.com
External links
[edit]
- Random House Word of the Day Entry on point man
- Elementary Treatise on Advanced-Guard, Out-Post and Detachment Service of Troops (1861)
- Walking Point: The energetic journey of Edwin Kieffer, by Jeff Brodsky on August 9, 2006 Mountain Xpress (accessed Sept. 23, 2006)