a pivotal turning point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pivotal turning point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant moment or event that leads to a major change or development in a situation. Example: "The signing of the peace treaty was a pivotal turning point in the history of the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

A pivotal turning point occurred when Einstein was 16.

Britannica

"The September 24 demonstrations could be a pivotal turning point like you remember from the Vietnam War," she says.

The Washington Post

Labour has pulled ahead as "best on the economy" in the polls, which may prove a pivotal turning point.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now, as we go back again to the effect, the consequences of what the external actors do, the invasion by the Soviet Union of Afghanistan was a pivotal turning point in effecting the radicalization of some sectors of Islamic society in the light of this history.

University of California, Berkeley

Nonetheless, now a 28-year-old dogged by injury in recent years faces a lengthy suspension – a four-year ban if she is found to have taken meldonium intentionally to enhance performance, two years if unintentionally – and faces a pivotal turning point.

The Guardian - Sport

The photographer was there to mark a pivotal turning point in Bangladeshi history.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

They are the scene of a brief but pivotal turning point in the fortunes of anti-heroine Becky Sharp in Thackeray's 19th-century novel Vanity Fair, as well as a setting in his novel Pendennis.

Wikipedia

Phillip Lim is a part of the most pivotal turning point, the most forever-changing, devastating moment of my life.

Huffington Post

Looking back, 1998 was the pivotal turning point, not 2000.

The Guardian - Sport

Ironically, the pivotal turning point in Bhumika's career was seizing this cultural space and occupying it on her own terms.

The Guardian

Russia's decision, in 2015, to provide air power to Assad is widely considered the pivotal turning point for the regime, which has now defied steep odds to hold on to power.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pivotal turning point" to emphasize a moment that significantly alters the course of events, ensuring the context clearly demonstrates the before-and-after effects.

Common error

Avoid using "a pivotal turning point" for minor or inconsequential events; reserve it for situations where the impact is truly substantial and widely recognized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pivotal turning point" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a specific moment or event that is of critical importance. Ludwig's examples show its use across various domains to highlight significant shifts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pivotal turning point" is a noun phrase used to describe a significantly important moment that causes a major change. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting its prevalence in News & Media, Academia, and Science. While versatile, it's best reserved for events with substantial impact, as overuse can dilute its effect. Consider alternatives like "a crucial juncture" or "a watershed moment" to fine-tune the nuance. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize a significant shift and its resulting consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial juncture

This alternative emphasizes the critical nature of the moment for decision-making.

a watershed moment

This phrase highlights the idea of a clear division before and after the event.

a decisive moment

This alternative stresses the conclusive impact of the event.

a critical juncture

This emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the moment.

a game changer

This modern idiom indicates a factor that dramatically alters the situation.

a significant shift

This phrase focuses on the change in direction or approach.

a key milestone

Highlights the achievement aspect of the turning point.

a transformative event

Emphasizes the profound and lasting impact of the event.

a moment of truth

Suggests a point where true character or outcome is revealed.

a sea change

This alternative implies a major and comprehensive transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "a pivotal turning point" in a sentence?

Use "a pivotal turning point" to describe a moment that marks a significant shift or change in direction. For example, "The invention of the printing press was "a pivotal turning point" in the spread of knowledge".

What are some alternatives to "a pivotal turning point"?

You can use alternatives such as "a crucial juncture", "a watershed moment", or "a decisive moment" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the pivotal turning point"?

While grammatically correct, using "the" might imply that the turning point is already known or has been previously referenced. "A" is generally preferred when introducing the turning point for the first time.

What makes a moment qualify as "a pivotal turning point"?

A moment qualifies as "a pivotal turning point" when it fundamentally alters the trajectory of events, leading to significant and lasting changes. The impact should be substantial and widely recognized.