at breaking point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at breaking point" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is under extreme stress or pressure and is close to a collapse or breakdown. Example: "After weeks of working overtime without a break, she felt she was at breaking point and needed to take a vacation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I am positively at breaking point.

Independent

"GPs are at breaking point.

The Guardian

The service is at breaking point.

The Guardian

"Our hospitals are at breaking point.

The Guardian

Our services are at breaking point and they are at breaking point now," she said.

The Guardian

Many primary care staff are at breaking point.

The Guardian

May knew the EU's patience was at breaking point.

The Guardian

Services for older people are at breaking point.

The Guardian - Opinion

Is the US-Mexico border already at breaking point?

The Guardian

We're told the NHS is at breaking point.

The Guardian

The conditions were at breaking point under Labor," Dutton said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at breaking point", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the level of stress or pressure involved. Is it a person, a system, or a relationship that's nearing its limit? Tailor your language to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

While "at breaking point" is widely accepted, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your communication sound overly dramatic. Opt for simpler expressions like "stressed" or "overwhelmed" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at breaking point" functions as a predicative adjective, typically describing a noun or pronoun that is experiencing extreme stress or pressure. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, backed by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at breaking point" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe situations or individuals under extreme stress or pressure. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted and appears frequently in news, media, and other formal contexts. While versatile, it's essential to consider the specific nuance you want to convey, and be mindful of overuse, especially in informal settings. Alternatives like "on the verge of collapse" or "under immense pressure" can offer similar meanings with subtle differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near the breaking point

This phrase is a slight variation, indicating proximity to the point of collapse or failure.

on the verge of collapse

This alternative emphasizes the imminence of failure or breakdown, focusing on the potential for something to fall apart completely.

at the breaking edge

This alternative evokes the image of being on the very precipice of collapse, emphasizing the precariousness of the situation.

under immense pressure

This phrase highlights the significant strain and stress being experienced, without necessarily implying an imminent failure.

at the end of one's rope

This idiom suggests a state of desperation where someone is out of options and struggling to cope.

stretched to the limit

This alternative focuses on the idea that resources or capabilities have been fully utilized and cannot be extended further.

on the brink

This phrase indicates that a significant event, often negative, is about to occur.

in a critical state

This alternative suggests that a situation is unstable and requires immediate attention to prevent a negative outcome.

facing a crisis

This phrase emphasizes the existence of a difficult and dangerous situation that needs to be resolved.

under extreme duress

This alternative highlights the severe pressure and coercion being applied, often implying a lack of free will.

FAQs

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

You can use "at breaking point" to describe a situation where someone or something is under so much stress that it's about to fail. For example, "After months of relentless pressure, the healthcare system was "at breaking point"".

What are some alternatives to "at breaking point"?

Alternatives include "on the verge of collapse", "under immense pressure", or "at the end of one's rope". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "at breaking point"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "at breaking point" is correct and usable in written English.

Which is more appropriate: "reaching breaking point" or "at breaking point"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but they convey slightly different meanings. "Reaching breaking point" implies a process of getting closer to the limit, while "at breaking point" suggests that the limit has already been reached.