a critical state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a critical state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that is crucial or essential, often implying urgency or importance. Example: "The patient was in a critical state, requiring immediate medical attention to stabilize their condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Systems exhibiting self-organised criticality evolve towards a critical state through the interaction of multiple simultaneous processes42.

Nature

An important proportion of critically ill patients who survive their acute illness remain in a critical state requiring intensive care management for weeks to months.

BMC Infectious Diseases

The economy remained in a critical state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"California is a critical state," he said.

The New York Times

It's obviously a critical state for us.

The New York Times

Ohio is a critical state in the presidential campaign.

The New York Times

A critical state of such a tank is described.

International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping

Khuzestan province is home to two wetlands, also in a critical state.

The Guardian

This represents yet another blow to mental health services, which are already in a critical state.

The Guardian

It was a critical time in a critical state for Kennedy's presidential hopes.

The New York Times - Sports

Republicans snagged a critical state supreme court post in April 2011.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a critical state", ensure the context clearly indicates what is at risk or what the potential consequences are. For example, instead of just stating "the patient is in a critical state", specify "the patient is in a critical state, with a high risk of organ failure".

Common error

Avoid using "a critical state" as a generic intensifier. Ensure the situation genuinely warrants the description. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a critical state" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "critical" modifies the noun "state". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and frequently used. It often acts as a subject complement or object of a preposition, describing a condition or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a critical state" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a situation marked by urgency, importance, or instability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and applicable across diverse contexts including news, science, and formal communications. To use the phrase effectively, writers should ensure the context justifies its use and clearly indicates what is at stake. Related phrases such as "a precarious situation" or "a crucial juncture" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a make-or-break point

Emphasizes that the outcome will decisively affect future prospects.

a vital condition

Focuses on the necessity of the state for survival or success.

a precarious situation

Emphasizes the instability and potential for sudden negative change.

a crucial juncture

Highlights the importance of the moment and its impact on future outcomes.

a dire predicament

Stresses the severity and distress associated with the situation.

an emergency situation

Specifically indicates a situation requiring immediate action.

a sensitive phase

Highlights the delicacy and potential for disruption during this time.

a decisive moment

Emphasizes the importance of the decision made at this time.

a high-stakes environment

Focuses on the potential gains and losses associated with the state.

a vulnerable position

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or negative influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a critical state" to describe a situation that is crucial or unstable. For example: "The economy is in "a critical state" and requires immediate intervention" or "The patient's condition deteriorated to "a critical state" overnight".

What's the difference between "a critical state" and "a critical condition"?

While similar, "a critical state" often refers to a broader situation, while "a critical condition" is more commonly used in a medical context to describe a patient's serious health status. However, the phrases can sometimes be used interchangeably.

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

You can use alternatives like "a precarious situation", "a crucial juncture", or "a vital condition" depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "a critical state" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic, business, or news contexts, as it clearly and directly conveys the seriousness of a situation.