connect the dots

1 of 2

phrase

: to link together logically related elements in order to draw a conclusion
trying to connect the dots in the investigation

connect-the-dots

2 of 2

adjective

con·​nect-the-dots kə-ˈnekt-ṯẖə-ˈdäts How to pronounce connect-the-dots (audio)
: done or proceeding in a series of simple and usually predictable steps
a movie with a connect-the-dots plot

Examples of connect the dots in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Phrase
Swifties can connect the dots better than anyone, and an old New Heights video was soon being shared online that showed the Kelce brothers talking about Wendy Peffercorn. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 3 Aug. 2026 But there are numerous reports and social media rumors about the role, and those eager for the answer are trying to connect the dots. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 29 July 2026
Adjective
Enola dutifully trudges between clues and possibilities, shuffling through crime scenes and racing around shady spaces, all of this much more paint-by-numbers than connect-the-dots. — Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 30 June 2026 Practice matching with memory cards or coordination with connect-the-dots. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for connect the dots

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1981, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of connect the dots was in 1981

Rhymes for connect the dots

See All Rhymes for connect the dots

Browse Nearby Words

connectivity
connect the dots
connect-the-dots
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Connect the dots.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/connect%20the%20dots. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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