at this sensitive juncture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this sensitive juncture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a critical or delicate point in time or a situation where careful consideration is needed. Example: "At this sensitive juncture, we must carefully evaluate our options before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"To have it formulated this way, at this sensitive juncture, gives it a kind of significance".

The New York Times

A mistake by one actor will have a negative impact on all others... at this sensitive juncture... the age of zero-sum game is over, although a few actors continue to rely on archaic ways... to retain their domination.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"There will probably be an effort by the government to seek dismissal or deferral of the case on the grounds that at this particularly sensitive juncture in U.S.-Saudi relations, a suit like this would put the interests of private claimaints ahead of the interests of state," he said.

The New York Times

But it comes at a sensitive juncture in the arms control debate.

The New York Times

In a warning to protest organizers, the supreme leader said, "If the elite breaks laws, they will be held responsible for violence and bloodshed". He warned Iranians not to cause problems, because "Iran is at a sensitive juncture". And he asserted that foreign governments, especially the United States and Britain, were encouraging the opposition.

The Washington Post

His appointment to Poland's most important foreign post comes at a sensitive juncture in Poland's relations with Moscow.

Los Angeles Times

Nguyễn is at a sensitive juncture in her life, one that finds her looking to the past for both forgiveness and permission so she can forge a future free from regret.

HuffPost

It was not immediately clear why, at such a sensitive juncture, Iraq would choose to move against Russia's economic interests there.

The New York Times

leader at this critical juncture.

The New York Times

Responsible leadership and rhetoric is required at this critical juncture.

The New York Times

Especially at this critical juncture in your life and career.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger alternatives if the situation is dire or requires immediate action. For example, 'at this critical juncture' or 'at this pivotal moment' may convey a greater sense of urgency.

Common error

While appropriate in formal contexts, overuse of "at this sensitive juncture" can make your writing sound stilted. Vary your language by using alternatives like "at this critical point" or "given the present situation" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this sensitive juncture" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing or circumstances of an action. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it adds emphasis to the criticality or delicacy of the moment.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at this sensitive juncture" is a formal phrase used to highlight a critical or delicate point in time where careful consideration is paramount. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts such as news reporting, business communication, or academic writing. While useful for emphasizing the need for caution, it's important to avoid overuse to prevent your writing from sounding stilted. Remember to consider alternative phrases like "at this critical point" or "in these precarious circumstances" to maintain a natural and engaging tone. Despite being a correct expression, the phrase is rarely found.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at this critical point

Replaces "sensitive juncture" with "critical point", emphasizing the decisiveness of the moment.

at this delicate moment

Substitutes "sensitive juncture" with "delicate moment", highlighting the fragility of the situation.

in these precarious circumstances

Replaces the entire phrase with an expression focusing on the risky nature of the situation.

at this crucial stage

Changes "sensitive juncture" to "crucial stage", stressing the importance of the current phase.

in the current climate

Offers a broader perspective, referring to the general atmosphere or situation.

given the present situation

Emphasizes the existing conditions as a factor influencing action.

considering the current context

Focuses on the surrounding factors and circumstances.

at such a pivotal time

Replaces "sensitive juncture" with "pivotal time", indicating a turning point.

in light of recent events

Highlights the impact of recent occurrences on the current situation.

with things as they stand

Provides a more casual way of referring to the present circumstances.

FAQs

What does "at this sensitive juncture" mean?

It means at a critical or delicate point in time, requiring careful consideration and action. It's often used when the potential for negative consequences is high.

When is it appropriate to use "at this sensitive juncture"?

It's suitable for formal writing, reports, or speeches where you want to emphasize the importance of a particular moment or situation and the need for careful handling.

What can I say instead of "at this sensitive juncture"?

You can use alternatives like "at this critical point", "at this delicate moment", or "in these precarious circumstances" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "at this sensitive juncture" formal or informal?

It's considered a formal expression. In more casual settings, you might opt for phrases like "now" or "given the current situation".