Are you in a conversation with friends, and someone says something totally irrelevant to the discussion? If so, they are making a "moot point." This post unpacks everything you need to know about the origin and meaning of this expression.
Moot Point Meaning
The meaning of the saying "moot point" stems from the word "mute," which means "silent; refraining from speech or utterance." Pairing the word with "point" implies that the person making the point would do better if they had said nothing at all.
So, the meaning of "moot point" is that anyone making a statement or point is adding no value to the conversation, or what they are talking about doesn't have any relevance.
For example, it's like talking on the phone with the mute function activated. You think you're making a good point and adding value to the conversation, but no one seems to care or believe that your statement is worth mentioning.
Moot Point Example Usage
"Did the chicken or the egg come first? Well, I suppose it's a moot point."
"Did Shakespeare write the play, or was it someone else? Well, I guess it's a moot point."
"The debate around natural or man-made climate change is a moot point; there is plenty of evidence proving the latter."
"Of course, this is a moot point for pet owners who didn't buy their dog from an established breeder that takes care of the animal and understands its lineage."
"This new PS5 isn't as comprehensive as the new Xbox version, but if you don't own the Xbox, it's kind of a moot point."
"If you have an allergy to sesame seeds, the nutritional value of the food is a moot point in light of the immunological response the body has when eating the seeds."
Moot Point Origin
The phrase "moot point" derives from the British version of the expression, "mute point." However, in America, "moot point" is the correct spelling, while you'll hear British people use the other variant.
The expression evolves from British law, where legislation describes hypothetical points of discussion used in case studies for law students. The early definition of "moot" is "an assembly of the people in early England exercising political, administrative, and judicial powers."
Like many other Americanisms of British words, "moot point" replaced the British version sometime in the late 1700s.
The word also has a comical origin from the popular TV show "Friends." The character "Joey," played by Matt LeBlanc, used the spelling "moo point" because he doesn't believe cows have anything worth adding to a conversation.
Phrases Similar to Moot Point
- Moot case.
- Debatable point.
- The point at large.
Phrases Opposite to Moot Point
- Worthy of consideration.
- The real deal.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Moot point.
Ways People May Say Moot Point Incorrectly
Some people may spell "moot point" as "mute point." "Mute point" is the British version of the saying, and it's not common in America. Spelling the expression "Moo point" is also the incorrect spelling of the word, derived from the TV show "Friends." Using "moo point" will make people think you are unintelligent and possibly uneducated.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Moot Point
You can use "moot point" when trying to impress upon something that their opinion doesn't matter or make a difference to the conversation or that they are adding no value. For instance, if you're talking about a movie, and someone starts talking about how the film's ending could lead to a sequel, it would be a moot point because the sequel is not yet under production. The saying suits use in social and professional conversations.