dotting the i's
Completing small particulars
Dotting the i's means attending to small but necessary details, ensuring everything is complete and correct.
Almost always paired with "crossing the t's" in the fuller expression dotting the i's and crossing the t's.
The phrase evokes careful handwriting as a metaphor for thoroughness: We're still dotting the i's on the contract before signing.
- finalizeSettle decisively
- carefulExercising caution and attention
- attention to detailFocus on specifics
- leaving no stone unturnedInvestigating every possible avenue
- meticulousShowing extreme attention to detail
thorough · painstaking · fastidious · methodical · scrupulous · due diligence · pen · finish · correct · precise · stroke · ink · perfectionism · conscientious · conclude · wrap up · tying up loose ends · double-checking
dotting the i'scutting corners
Reducing effort improperly
phoning it in · winging it · sloppiness · negligence · inattention
dotting the i'sgood enough for government work
Acceptable but mediocre quality
close enough · winging it · mailing it in · going through the motions