Up to a point means partly, to some degree: I agree up to a point, but... A but and a limit usually follow. In British speech it's also a polite way to disagree: in Evelyn Waugh's novel Scoop, an editor answers Up to a point, Lord Copper when he means No.
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agree / be true / work up to a point; only up to a point; up to a point, but ...
- I agree with the review up to a point, but the ending worked better for me.
- The extra shelf helped up to a point; we still needed more storage.
- That explanation is true up to a point, though it leaves out the travel costs.
What changed
First versionThe new timetable helped up to point, but the late bus was still crowded.
RevisionThe new timetable helped up to a point, but the late bus was still crowded.
Many short phrases have no article, like in part or at random, so a looks optional here. But the phrase doesn't work without it: up to a point. With a back in place, the sentence sounds natural.
To some extent is neutral and simply shows a degree: the noise dropped to some extent. Up to a point usually prepares an objection: true up to a point, but... If you want to disagree gently, use up to a point.
Your turn
I partly agree, but there are limits: I agree up to ___ point.
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a — The fixed phrase uses the indefinite article: up to a point. The point would need more after it: up to the point where we disagree.
Partly agree with an opinion about a book, a route or a decision at work, and name one specific limit. Use up to a point.
The map is helpful up to a point, but it doesn't show the temporary road closures.
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