breakthrough year

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breakthrough year" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a year in which significant progress or achievements are made, often in a personal, professional, or organizational context. Example: "After years of hard work and dedication, 2023 was finally my breakthrough year, leading to numerous opportunities and successes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His breakthrough year was 2010.

Independent

Sherman's breakthrough year was 1982.

The New Yorker

Then came 2007, a breakthrough year.

The Guardian

She herself is having a breakthrough year in yoga.

The New York Times

A breakthrough year has him in the top 30.

The New York Times

It could be a breakthrough year on that.

The New York Times

Spann's timing for a breakthrough year was perfect.

The New York Times - Sports

Jimmy's breakthrough year was 2004, my last with the Phillies.

The New York Times

Everyone says you have a breakthrough year, and that's sick, but I want to have another breakthrough year!

The Guardian - Music

But wheels of change are finally turning in what should be a breakthrough year in cycling.

Independent

Harrison was asked if he expected 2013 to be a breakthrough year.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "breakthrough year" to highlight a specific period when significant advancements or successes were achieved, providing context and details to support the claim. For instance, "After implementing the new strategy, 2024 became our company's breakthrough year, with a 30% increase in revenue."

Common error

Avoid using "breakthrough year" as a generic descriptor without providing concrete examples or measurable results. Instead of simply stating "It was a breakthrough year", offer specific details about the achievements and milestones that justify the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breakthrough year" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. Ludwig examples demonstrate its role in attributing a specific quality of significant advancement to a particular year, such as "2010 was his breakthrough year."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase “breakthrough year” is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that signifies a year marked by significant progress, achievement, or innovation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, sports, and business reporting. To effectively employ this phrase, ensure it is supported by specific examples and measurable results to avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims. Alternatives such as "landmark year" or "pivotal year" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the nuance you wish to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

landmark year

Emphasizes the year's significance as a turning point or important event.

pivotal year

Highlights the year's role as a critical juncture leading to substantial change.

transformative year

Focuses on the year's capacity to cause a major shift or alteration.

banner year

Suggests a year of outstanding success and achievement, often in a specific field.

breakout year

Similar to "breakthrough year", but often used in the context of someone or something suddenly becoming famous or successful.

momentous year

Emphasizes the year's importance and historical significance.

watershed year

Indicates a turning point that marks a new direction or era.

successful year

A more general term, indicating a year filled with positive outcomes and accomplishments.

year of progress

Highlights the advancement and development made during the year.

groundbreaking year

Stresses the innovative and pioneering nature of the year's achievements.

FAQs

How can I use "breakthrough year" in a sentence?

You can use "breakthrough year" to describe a period of significant progress or success. For example: "2024 was a "breakthrough year" for renewable energy technologies."

What are some alternatives to "breakthrough year"?

Alternatives include "landmark year", "pivotal year", or "transformative year", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "breakthrough year" in formal writing?

Yes, "breakthrough year" is appropriate for formal writing when used to describe a period of substantial achievement or advancement supported by evidence.

What distinguishes a "breakthrough year" from a "successful year"?

While a "successful year" indicates general positive outcomes, a "breakthrough year" specifically implies a significant advancement or overcoming of previous limitations. It suggests a notable shift or leap forward.