a critical point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a critical point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important or decisive moment in a discussion, analysis, or process. Example: "During the meeting, we reached a critical point where we had to decide on the project's direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Critics like Eisinger are missing a critical point.

Huffington Post

Still, the petitioners raise a critical point.

The New Yorker

"We are reaching a critical point".

The New York Times

You cited a critical point.

The New York Times

Which raises a critical point.

The New York Times - Health

This is a critical point.

The Guardian - Opinion

Robert B. Reich misses a critical point.

The New York Times

'There's a critical point around 13.

The Guardian - Music

We have reached a critical point".

The New York Times

So I think that's a critical point.

The New York Times

The Zika crisis is reaching a critical point.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a critical point" to emphasize moments of significant decision-making or change. It signals the importance of what follows.

Common error

Avoid using "a critical point" too frequently in a single piece of writing. This can dilute its impact. Opt for synonyms like "pivotal moment" or "crucial juncture" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a critical point" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific moment or juncture of great importance or consequence. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a critical point" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote a significant moment or juncture. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science, it signifies a moment of high importance, requiring careful consideration. While versatile, be mindful of overuse and consider related terms like "a pivotal moment" or "a crucial juncture" to maintain impact. As Ludwig's examples illustrate, "a critical point" effectively highlights moments that demand attention and strategic action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pivotal moment

Emphasizes the turning point aspect, focusing on the significance of the moment for future outcomes.

a crucial juncture

Highlights the decisiveness and potential consequences of the situation.

a turning point

Focuses specifically on the shift or change in direction that occurs.

a key aspect

Shifts focus to an important element or feature within a larger context.

a decisive stage

Emphasizes the impact of a specific point in a series of events

an essential factor

Stresses the necessity and importance of a particular element.

a vital element

Stresses the absolute necessity of a component or aspect.

a significant consideration

Highlights the importance of a factor that needs careful thought and attention.

an important issue

Broadens the scope to highlight a problem or matter of concern that needs addressing.

a central theme

Highlights an element that the discussion or topic hinges on.

FAQs

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

You can use "a critical point" to highlight a moment of significant decision or change, as in "We've reached "a critical point" in the negotiations, and the next steps are crucial."

What phrases can I use instead of "a critical point"?

Alternatives to "a critical point" include "a pivotal moment", "a crucial juncture", or "a key aspect", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "a critical point"?

While grammatically correct, using "a critical point" may be inappropriate if the situation isn't truly significant or decisive. Choose a less emphatic phrase if the point is merely important, not fundamentally game-changing.

What's the difference between "a critical point" and "an important point"?

"A critical point" suggests a moment of high stakes or significant change, whereas "an important point" simply denotes something worthy of attention. "Critical" implies a potential turning point, a make-or-break situation.