Definition

Noun: 1. A tool used to fasten or secure something, such as nails, bolts, or rivets, by bending or flattening the protruding end. This is the literal, mechanical meaning. 2. A point, fact, or remark that settles something conclusively; a decisive argument or piece of evidence. This is the most common figurative meaning, referring to the final element that makes an argument or decision certain.

Examples of Usage

• Literal (Tool):
  • The carpenter used a clincher to secure the nail on the other side of the board.
  • A rivet clincher is essential for creating a permanent joint in metalwork.
• Figurative (Decisive Point):
  • Her final piece of evidence was the clincher that convinced the jury.
  • "If you don't believe me, check the official report." That was the clincher.
  • The low price was good, but the ten-year warranty was the real clincher for me.

Advanced Usage

• "That's the clincher": A common phrase used to declare that a specific point is the conclusive or deciding factor.
  • You say it's eco-friendly and cheaper to run? Well, that's the clincher—I'll buy it.
• "clincher argument": A redundant but sometimes used phrase emphasizing an argument that is definitively conclusive.

Variants and Related Words

• Clinch (verb): To settle conclusively; to fasten securely.
  • They shook hands to clinch the deal.
  • He clinched the nail with a hammer.
• Clinching (adjective): Serving to conclude or settle something decisively.
  • The detective presented clinching evidence.

Synonyms

• Decider: Something that determines an outcome.
• Coup de grâce: A final, decisive blow or action (from French).
• Final/Decisive argument: The last and most convincing point.
• Trump card: A key resource held in reserve to ensure success.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Seal the deal": Similar in meaning to providing the final, convincing element.
  • The free installation was what sealed the deal.
• "The last nail in the coffin": A final event that causes the failure of something. This is more negative than "clincher."
  • The poor sales report was the last nail in the coffin for the project.

Noun

1. a tool used to clinch nails or bolts or rivets
2. a point or fact or remark that settles something conclusively
3. an argument that is conclusive