defining episode

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining episode" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant event or moment that shapes or characterizes a particular situation or narrative. Example: "The defining episode of her life came when she decided to pursue her passion for art, leading her to a successful career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Solzhenitsyn was a giant among the heroic dissidents in the Soviet Union, and his saga was a defining episode in the decline of the Communist tyranny.

The New York Times

"A Bright Shining Lie" is about the Vietnam War, which in many ways was the defining episode of Mr. Sheehan's life.

The New York Times - Books

But Germans are no longer so ready to be put on the moral defensive or to view the Nazi era as the defining episode of their past.

The Economist

The second world war shaped the rest of the 20th century across the globe, while the Holocaust has come to be seen in many ways as the defining episode of that grim century.

The Guardian

If it becomes clear that the United States was behind this action – it has not yet admitted responsibility – this incident will go down in history as the defining episode of US-Latin America relations during the Obama administration.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nationalist historians reject the idea of a coherent universal movement, preferring to talk about the English, French, even Icelandic Enlightenments.Mr Israel has set himself the task of rebutting these critics and re-establishing the period as the defining episode in the emancipation of man.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Late adolescence sees more than its fair share of defining episodes.

Independent

Ethno-nationalists in Europe look to epic clashes with Arab armies as defining episodes in their own national stories.

The Washington Post

The fall of Lehman Brothers, the 158-year-old firm bankrupted by its hubris and perilous mortgage bets, was one of the defining episodes of the 2008 financial crisis.

The New York Times - Books

Second of a three-part film series presented by the Center for Middle Eastern Studies in partnership with The Arab Film Festival on the 70th anniversary of Al-Nakba of 1948, one of the Middle East's most defining episodes.

University of California, Berkeley

First of a three-part film series presented by the Center for Middle Eastern Studies in partnership with The Arab Film Festival on the 70th anniversary of Al-Nakba of 1948, one of the Middle East's most defining episodes.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defining episode" to emphasize a single event that significantly shapes the course of subsequent events or understanding. For example, "The 2008 financial crisis was a "defining episode" for the global economy".

Common error

Avoid using "defining episode" for minor events or situations. Reserve it for moments with substantial and lasting impact. Using it too loosely dilutes its significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining episode" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object to identify a specific event as crucial and formative. Ludwig examples showcase its application across diverse subjects.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defining episode" effectively denotes a pivotal event that shapes subsequent events or understanding. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently appears in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. While "pivotal moment", "watershed event", and "turning point" offer similar meanings, "defining episode" often emphasizes a more prolonged and pervasive influence. To wield it effectively, reserve it for substantial moments and avoid overuse in trivial contexts. In essence, "defining episode" is a powerful tool for underscoring the long-term impact of significant events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crucial episode

Uses a similar structure but substitutes "defining" with "crucial".

pivotal moment

Focuses on the turning point aspect, rather than the broader shaping influence.

watershed event

Emphasizes a significant change or turning point with lasting consequences.

turning point

Highlights the moment of change, often in a narrative or process.

critical juncture

Stresses the importance and decisiveness of the moment.

decisive moment

Highlights the conclusive and impactful nature of the event.

formative experience

Focuses on the impact of the event on personal development.

landmark event

Emphasizes the historical significance and memorability of the event.

seminal moment

Highlights the influential and groundbreaking nature of the event.

key event

A more general term for an important occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "defining episode" in a sentence?

Use "defining episode" to describe a pivotal event that significantly shapes a particular period or narrative. For instance, "The moon landing was a "defining episode" of the 20th century".

What are some alternatives to "defining episode"?

You can use alternatives like "pivotal moment", "watershed event", or "turning point" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "defining episode" in formal writing?

Yes, "defining episode" is suitable for formal writing as it's a clear and concise way to describe a significant event. However, ensure the context warrants the weight of the phrase.

What distinguishes a "defining episode" from a regular event?

A "defining episode" is not just any event; it's a moment that fundamentally alters the course of events or perceptions, setting it apart from routine or inconsequential occurrences.