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connect the dots

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connect the dots

to understand the relationship between different ideas or experiences It took years of hard work to connect the dots between the murder and the suspect.

Etymology: from a children's activity in which a picture can be seen when you draw lines to connect numbered dots (small, round marks)

See also: connect, dot

connect the dots

1. To draw connecting lines between a seemingly random arrangement of numbered dots so as to produce a picture or design.

2. To draw logical inferences connecting items of information to reveal something previously hidden or unknown.

See also: connect, dot