at a decisive point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a decisive point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a critical moment or juncture in a situation where a significant decision or action is required. Example: "The negotiations reached a critical stage, and we found ourselves at a decisive point where we had to choose between two very different paths."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"We are at a decisive point in time," he said.

The Guardian

The Powell Doctrine is really about applying leverage only when it matters - at a decisive point, or tipping point designed to maximize chances of success.

The Guardian - Opinion

Kathleen Gerson, a professor of sociology at New York University whose studies on reshaping family and work were cited by her Norwegian colleague, Ms. Teigen, noted that women's efforts to play an equal part at work and home are at a decisive point in a fast-shifting 21st century "where the new normal is going to be a life that cannot be planned too far in advance".

The New York Times

"It came at a decisive point of the match".

BBC

It came at a decisive point of the match". Ancelotti's assistant Paul Clement was even more gushing with his praise, remarking: "It was an incredible goal.

BBC

"It came at a decisive point of the match". Real are three points behind leaders Atletico Madrid in La Liga with five games remaining and host holders Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Sept. 11 brought many matters to a decisive point at the firm.

The New York Times

The brothers, silver medallists at the 2010 world championships, were level at 2-2 in the final six-throw end, but will have to settle for a bronze at best after Eilseu Dos Santos and Jose Pinto Dirceu grabbed a decisive point late on in their BC4 pairs clash.

BBC

This was a decisive point in British Indian history.

Britannica

"We have reached a decisive point," he said.

The Guardian

"We're at a rather decisive point where we either move onto substantive negotiations or back to more years of fruitless discussion," Mr. McCarthy said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a decisive point" to clearly convey that a situation requires immediate and important action or decisions. This phrase adds weight to your statement and emphasizes the gravity of the moment.

Common error

Avoid using "at a decisive point" when describing minor or inconsequential situations. This phrase is best reserved for moments of genuine significance to prevent diluting its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a decisive point" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the timing or state of being when a critical decision or turning point is reached. Ludwig AI shows it highlights the significance of the moment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

21%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

7%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a decisive point" effectively conveys that a situation has reached a critical juncture, necessitating careful consideration and action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness for highlighting important moments. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is found in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, primarily within news, business, and encyclopedia contexts. Alternatives like "at a critical juncture" or "at a turning point" can provide similar emphasis, but it's important to reserve "at a decisive point" for situations of genuine significance to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a critical juncture

Emphasizes the importance of the moment as a meeting point of events.

at a turning point

Highlights the idea that the situation is about to change direction.

at a pivotal moment

Stresses the significance of the moment as one that will influence future events.

at a crucial stage

Indicates that the situation is at a stage where outcomes are highly dependent on current actions.

at a crossroads

Suggests a point where a choice must be made that will determine the future.

at a make-or-break moment

Highlights the high stakes involved, where success or failure is imminent.

at the point of decision

Focuses on the act of deciding and the importance of the current moment for making that decision.

at a climactic moment

Implies that the situation has reached its peak intensity and a resolution is near.

at the eleventh hour

Suggests that the critical point is occurring very late, just before it's too late.

on the verge of change

Emphasizes the imminence of a significant shift or transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "at a decisive point" in a sentence?

Use "at a decisive point" to indicate a critical moment or turning point in a situation, for example: "The negotiations reached "at a decisive point", requiring immediate action from both parties".

What is a synonym for "at a decisive point"?

Synonyms include "at a critical juncture", "at a turning point", or "at a pivotal moment", each emphasizing the importance of the moment.

Is it better to use "at a decisive point" or "at a critical point"?

Both "at a decisive point" and "at a critical point" are correct, but "at a decisive point" often implies that a specific decision or action is required to influence the outcome.

What does "at a decisive point" imply?

"At a decisive point" implies that the current stage is crucial, and the actions taken now will significantly affect the future outcome. It suggests a need for careful consideration and strategic action.