agony point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "agony point" is not a standard expression in written English and may not be widely recognized.
It could potentially be used to describe a moment of extreme discomfort or distress, but clarity may be lacking without context. Example: "Reaching the agony point during the marathon made me question my training regimen."

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

As the 30-year-old rolled around in agony, Kerr pointed at his team-mate and shouted: "I've done this 'cos of you!" Constable Louise Spencer said: "This injury has had a catastrophic effect on the victim's life, meaning he has been unable to work or support his young family.

Independent

6. OLD OPERA HOUSE, POINT AGONY, ANTARCTICA Every schoolboy knows the saga of the 1910 Finnish South Pole expedition that lost its way, became marooned, went mad and decided to build an opera house.

The New York Times - Magazine

E was in agony to the point of tears which she hid from me but I am now unfoolable.

Huffington Post

There is a medic who is physically uninjured but tormented to the point of agony by memories of treating his wounded and dying colleagues.

The New York Times - Magazine

Photograph: Mike Segar/Reuters 12.27am BST We all feel Andy Murray's agony at missing a point against Djokovic Photograph: Mike Segar/Reuters 12.24am BST Andy Murray puts it all on the line.

The Guardian - Sport

As he sprinted around the court in London celebrating his victory, the contingent of spectators in Queens — almost all pulling for Mr. Lee, who collapsed in agony after the final point — groaned in disbelief.

The New York Times

But for the injudicious flagging of the linesman, Antonio Gallardo, the discomfort for the home players would have deepened to the point of agony even before the completion of the first 45 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

She has endured agony to reach this point, her body breaking down in a sport that usually spits out gymnasts by their early twenties at best.

BBC

Mainly, and perhaps uniquely, it does the more nuanced kinds of human agony: awkwardness, embarrassment, fine-point humiliation.

The Guardian - Sport

The game was as good as over for Sociedad at that point, but the agony was not and Bale set up Khedira to rifle home Madrid's fourth from the edge of the box with nine minutes of the first half remaining.

BBC

He peed — no, peeped in that door," James said and he pointed in an agony of embarrassment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "agony point", ensure the context clearly indicates a moment of extreme distress or a critical threshold. This will help avoid ambiguity, as the phrase is not widely recognized.

Common error

Avoid using "agony point" in formal writing without careful consideration, as it might not be universally understood. Opt for more standard phrases like "breaking point" or "critical juncture" to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "agony point" functions as a noun phrase, referring to a specific moment or stage characterized by intense suffering or difficulty. It describes a critical threshold where distress is maximized. Ludwig AI indicates that while not standard, the phrase's meaning can be inferred.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "agony point" isn't a standard idiom, it effectively conveys the concept of a moment of extreme distress or a critical threshold. Ludwig AI confirms its inferred meaning, although its lack of widespread use suggests caution in formal contexts. Alternatives like "breaking point" or "critical juncture" might be more suitable to ensure clarity. Remember that while not common, with context and intention, it is an acceptable way to communicate an event that has reached a pivotal moment of anguish.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

breaking point

Focuses on the limit of endurance before failure or collapse.

critical juncture

Emphasizes a decisive moment or turning point involving significant difficulty.

point of maximum suffering

Directly highlights the intensity of pain experienced at a specific moment.

peak of anguish

Conveys the highest level of emotional distress.

limit of tolerance

Indicates the threshold beyond which something becomes unbearable.

endurance limit

Highlights the maximum stress that can be sustained without failure.

threshold of pain

Specifies the point at which pain becomes consciously perceived.

culmination of suffering

Refers to the final and most intense stage of suffering.

zenith of distress

Similar to 'peak of anguish' but with a more formal tone.

crisis point

Describes a moment of intense difficulty or danger.

FAQs

How can "agony point" be used in a sentence?

You might say, "Reaching the "agony point" during negotiations, both parties considered making concessions."

What is a suitable alternative to "agony point"?

Alternatives include "breaking point", "critical juncture", or "point of maximum suffering" depending on the intended emphasis.

Is "agony point" a commonly used phrase?

While not a standard expression, "agony point" can effectively convey a moment of extreme distress or a critical threshold in specific contexts.

What does "agony point" imply?

It suggests a situation has reached its most difficult or painful stage, requiring a resolution or change in approach.