boiling point

USAGE SUMMARY

"boiling point" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation that has become particularly tense or difficult, or when discussing the temperature at which water boils. For example, "The manager and employee were at their boiling point after arguing for hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Boiling point Keeps remarkably calm.

The Guardian - Sport

Ingushetia itself is close to boiling point.

The Economist

NEWSREADER: Good god! That's nearly boiling point.

The Times

Digested read, digested: Fashion at boiling point.

The Guardian - Books

**Calculated using the experimentally obtained boiling point at reduced pressure.

Britannica

"I am reaching boiling point and am incredibly stressed.

The Guardian

When it is almost at boiling point, remove from heat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So you've got this crazy, dynamic personality at boiling point.

The Guardian

Question was to determine boiling point of the American public.

The New Yorker

difference of boiling point.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Paranoia is at boiling point.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "boiling point" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a physical limit, a point of emotional intensity, or a critical stage in a process.

Common error

Avoid using "boiling point" in contexts where a less dramatic or intense term would be more appropriate. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "boiling point" primarily functions as a noun, referring either to the specific temperature at which a liquid boils or, metaphorically, to a state of high tension or emotional distress. Ludwig shows examples in both scientific and everyday contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "boiling point" is a versatile term with both literal and metaphorical applications. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression. Its primary function is to denote either the temperature at which a liquid boils or a state of extreme tension or critical intensity. In scientific contexts, the register is formal, while in news and everyday usage, it is typically neutral. While examples are very common in "News & Media", "Science" and "Wiki", less common are the Academia, Encyclopedias and Formal & Business contexts. When used metaphorically, careful consideration should be given to avoid overuse or misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

breaking point

Emphasizes the point at which something or someone can no longer withstand pressure.

critical threshold

Highlights the specific point at which a significant change or effect occurs.

flashpoint

Focuses on a specific location or event where conflict or tension is likely to erupt.

tipping point

Indicates the moment when a trend or situation becomes irreversible.

point of no return

Highlights that it is impossible to go back.

temperature limit

Refers to the maximum allowable temperature before damage or failure occurs.

emotional limit

Highlights the maximum level of emotional distress or strain someone can endure.

stress threshold

Emphasizes the point beyond which stress becomes detrimental.

peak intensity

Focuses on the maximum level of strength, force or concentration.

culmination point

Refers to the final stage or climax of a process or event.

FAQs

How is the term "boiling point" used in science?

In science, "boiling point" refers to the temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas. This property is crucial in understanding the behavior of matter under different conditions.

What does "boiling point" mean in a metaphorical sense?

Metaphorically, "boiling point" describes a state of extreme tension or anger, where a situation is about to explode or reach a critical stage. It's similar to "breaking point" but often implies a more sudden or volatile release.

How do you use "boiling point" in a sentence?

You can use "boiling point" in sentences like: "Tensions between the two departments reached a "boiling point" after the budget cuts" or "The "boiling point" of water is 100 degrees Celsius at standard pressure."

Are there alternatives to using "boiling point"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use terms like "flashpoint", "critical threshold", or "breaking point". Each has a slightly different nuance.