a point of escalation

USAGE SUMMARY

'a point of escalation' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation in which the seriousness or intensity of something increases or intensifies. For example: The dispute between the two countries had reached a point of escalation and it looked like war was inevitable.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our spirit guide for the day was there to get us started, keep us moving, motivate and be our point of escalation for anything we needed.

Forbes

(The group's name was meant to rebrand the surge as an "escalation," although Matzzie admits that, months later, the moniker has "become a point of confusion").

The New York Times - Magazine

"There's definitely a degree of escalation," Cherns said.

The New Yorker

Documentation may also help identify patterns in technology abuse and points of escalation.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

Even now, more than a year later, the president and other administration officials cite Samarra as a turning point -- "a tragic escalation of sectarian rage and reprisal," President Bush called it in a March 6 news conference.

The Washington Post

Clearly, the optimal time point of de-escalation and the optimal maintenance regimen still have to be defined.

BMC Cancer

Domestic violence is a crime of escalation.

The New Yorker

"The protesters have a plan of escalation," he said.

The New York Times

A policy of escalation will do no better.

Huffington Post

Happily we see, from our environmental point of view, an escalation in understanding or willingness to participate".

The Guardian

"Lateral": an absence of escalation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a point of escalation", ensure the context clearly indicates what is escalating. Be specific about the factors contributing to the increased intensity or seriousness.

Common error

Avoid using "a point of escalation" in situations where the increase in intensity is minor or insignificant. Reserve it for scenarios with substantial consequences or heightened stakes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a point of escalation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific stage or moment where something intensifies. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a point of escalation" effectively denotes a critical juncture where intensity or seriousness increases. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and readily usable. Though examples are limited, its application spans news, scientific discourse, and business contexts, reflecting its analytical nature. Related phrases offer nuanced alternatives, while best practices emphasize the need for clear contextualization. Although usage varies, authoritative sources frequently employ the expression, underscoring its reliability in conveying heightened situations. Despite its absence in some source categories, Ludwig's assessment reinforces its validity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical stage of escalation

Focuses specifically on the crucial moment within the escalation process.

a stage of heightened conflict

Focuses specifically on conflict scenarios.

a turning point in tensions

Emphasizes a shift or change in the level of tension.

the peak of the crisis

Refers to the most intense moment of the crisis.

a moment of increased severity

Highlights the increased intensity or seriousness.

the height of the conflict

Emphasizes the most extreme level of conflict.

a critical juncture of conflict

Suggests a decisive or crucial stage in a conflict.

a dangerous phase of intensification

Highlights the perilous nature of the intensification.

a flashpoint of crisis

Implies a sudden and dangerous increase in crisis.

an apex of tension

Highlights the highest point of tension.

FAQs

How can "a point of escalation" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a point of escalation" to describe when a situation becomes more intense or serious. For instance, "The conflict reached "a point of escalation" when both sides deployed additional troops".

What are some alternative phrases for "a point of escalation"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a critical stage", "a turning point", or "a flashpoint", each emphasizing different aspects of the intensified situation.

Is "a point of escalation" formal or informal language?

"A point of escalation" is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, often used in news reporting, academic discussions, and professional analysis. It maintains a level of seriousness appropriate for describing critical situations.

What distinguishes "a point of escalation" from "a point of no return"?

"A point of escalation" signifies an increase in intensity, while "a point of no return" indicates a threshold beyond which reversal is impossible. Escalation implies rising stakes, while no return suggests irreversibility.