on the spot

phrase

Synonyms of on the spotnext
1
: at once : immediately
was hired on the spot
2
: at the place of action
a reporter who was on the spot
3
a
: in a responsible or accountable position
The coach was put on the spot for the team's latest loss.
b
: in a difficult or trying situation
The unexpected question put me on the spot.

Examples of on the spot 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.
Some recall Ternus being able to cite plastic material measurements, drop-test physics equations, or weight metrics for various products—on the spot. — Sebastian Herrera, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 Cast members are not given full scripts, and several claim they were told what to say on the spot, which would account for their deer-in-headlights delivery. — Becca Rothfeld, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026 But detectives were able to create a montage from nearby traffic and surveillance cameras that showed both Sellars and Wathrust converging on the spot — Sellars walking and Walthrust driving — where Wathrust was found shot multiple times in his car. — Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 25 Aug. 2026 Several Charlotte restaurants are stepping in with affordable family meals, ranging from $25 to $140 depending on the spot and headcount. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the spot

Rhymes for on the spot

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Browse Nearby Words

on the spectrum
on the spot
on the spur of the moment
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On the spot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20spot. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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