a low point

USAGE SUMMARY

"a low point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a difficult or challenging moment in a situation, or a time when things were not going well. For example, "The company had hit a low point when the CEO resigned abruptly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That was a low point.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was a low point.

The New York Times - Arts

That was a low point, she said.

The New York Times

Last May was a low point.

The Economist

Yesterday night was a low point.

Independent

He was acquitted.It was a low point.

The Economist

Ten years ago was a low point.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even for Alabama, it's a low point".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Selig's visit came at a low point for the franchise.

The New York Times

They called it a "low point" in the investigation.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I never really had a low point".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a low point" to succinctly describe a time or situation when things were at their worst. This phrase is effective for conveying a sense of difficulty or failure without being overly dramatic.

Common error

While "a low point" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in extremely informal conversations. In such scenarios, consider using more casual alternatives like "rock bottom" or "the pits".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a low point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object to describe a particularly negative or difficult time. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a low point" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to describe a particularly negative or difficult moment, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase and is suitable for various contexts, especially in news, media, and business communications. When writing, you can use this phrase to highlight a time when things were at their worst, but consider more casual alternatives in very informal situations. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian commonly employ this phrase, it's essential to ensure it fits the overall tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rock bottom

Indicates the absolute lowest possible level, often implying a potential for recovery.

the lowest ebb

Uses a nautical metaphor to describe a period of decline or weakness.

a nadir

Replaces "point" with a more formal term, emphasizing the lowest position in a figurative sense.

a trough

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the low state, suggesting a cyclical pattern.

a crisis

Highlights the severity and urgency of the situation, suggesting a turning point is needed.

a difficult phase

Focuses on the transitional nature of the negative experience, implying it will pass.

a worst-case scenario

Frames the situation as the least desirable outcome among possible alternatives.

a critical juncture

Shifts the focus to a decisive moment, often negative but with potential for change.

a period of adversity

Broadens the scope to include general hardship and unfavorable conditions.

the pits

An informal expression indicating the worst possible condition or experience.

FAQs

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

You can use "a low point" to describe a particularly bad or difficult moment. For instance, "Losing the contract was "a low point" for the company."

What are some alternatives to saying "a low point"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "rock bottom", "nadir", or "lowest ebb" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "a low point" in formal writing?

Yes, "a low point" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business or news contexts. However, ensure that the tone remains professional and avoid overly emotional language.

What's the difference between "a low point" and "an all-time low"?

"A low point" refers to a significantly negative moment within a series of events. "An all-time low" implies the worst level ever reached in a particular context, suggesting a historical perspective.