add the pupil to a painted dragon; add the finishing touch; a brilliant touch that brings something to life
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb phrase
to add the pupil to a painted dragon (literal)
literaryThe original story describes the final, crucial brushstroke that brings a painting to life.
Legend says that after Zhang Sengyou painted a dragon, once he added the pupils, the dragon broke through the wall and flew away.
idiom
to add the finishing touch; to add a brilliant touch that brings something to life
formalExtremely common metaphor used to praise someone for adding a crucial, insightful, or vivid element that elevates the entire work or argument.
That concluding sentence in your essay is truly the finishing touch; it elevates the entire piece.
His final concluding remarks served as the brilliant touch that highlighted the significance of the entire project.
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The painting was good on its own, but adding this signature is like putting the finishing touch on it, doubling its value.
The coach's tactical adjustment at the final moment of the match was the masterstroke that directly secured the victory.