a critical mass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a critical mass" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the minimum amount of something required to create a significant effect or to trigger a change. Example: "The project gained momentum once it reached a critical mass of supporters who believed in its vision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The termites hid successfully for 25 years, reaching a critical mass a decade ago.

The New York Times

A critical mass of disgust?

The Economist

It's a critical mass".

The New York Times

"A critical mass has to be built.

The New Yorker

I think it's a critical mass.

Independent

'It's about a critical mass.

The Guardian

There seems to be a critical mass.

The Guardian - Sport

"It has reached a critical mass.

The Guardian - Business

"It's easier to achieve a critical mass.

The New York Times

There's a critical mass of firms".

The New York Times

"But we're finally reaching a critical mass".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a critical mass" to describe the minimum amount needed to trigger a noticeable effect or change in a system or group.

Common error

Avoid using "a critical mass" when simply referring to a large group or quantity without the implication of a triggering effect. Instead, use more general terms like "large number" or "significant amount".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a critical mass" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it signifies the minimum amount needed to trigger a significant effect or change, aligning with examples where it describes achieving a necessary threshold for action or growth.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A critical mass" is a noun phrase that signifies the minimum amount needed to trigger a substantial effect or change. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is commonly found in news and media, but also in encyclopedias, business and formal contexts. While alternatives like "a sufficient quantity" or "a tipping point" exist, "a critical mass" precisely conveys the idea of reaching a threshold for a specific outcome. To use it effectively, ensure the context implies a triggering effect, rather than just a large quantity. By understanding its nuances, writers can accurately convey the concept of reaching a pivotal point that leads to significant change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sufficient quantity

Focuses on the amount needed rather than the point of significance.

a tipping point

Emphasizes the moment of change rather than the accumulation.

a threshold level

Highlights a specific level that needs to be reached.

a necessary quorum

Implies a minimum number of people required for a decision.

a crucial threshold

Emphasizes the importance of reaching a certain point.

a decisive element

Highlights the element's role in determining an outcome.

a significant accumulation

Stresses the gathering of a substantial amount.

a vital concentration

Highlights the density of something essential.

a saturation point

Indicates a state where no more can be added or absorbed.

a fundamental accumulation

Stresses the accumulation as fundamental to the process.

FAQs

How can I use "a critical mass" in a sentence?

You can use "a critical mass" to describe the point at which enough people, investment, or other elements are present to enable or accelerate a process. For example, "The project needed "a critical mass of investors" to become viable."

What can I say instead of "a critical mass"?

You can use alternatives like "a sufficient quantity", "a tipping point", or "a threshold level" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a critical mass" in formal writing?

Yes, "a critical mass" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in business, academic, and scientific contexts, as it conveys a precise meaning related to achieving a necessary threshold.

What's the difference between "a critical mass" and "a large number"?

"A critical mass" implies that reaching a certain quantity leads to a significant change or effect. "A large number" simply indicates a substantial amount without suggesting a triggering effect. For example, having "a large number of supporters" is good, but achieving "a critical mass" can create self-sustaining momentum.