defining event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining event" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant occurrence that shapes or influences a situation, person, or group. Example: "The signing of the peace treaty was a defining event in the history of the nation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Is there such a thing as a human life's one totemic, defining event?

The Telegraph

To return to any place is, associatively or figuratively, to reconstruct any event that happened at that place — especially if it's a personally or universally defining event.

The New Yorker

And for many of the rest, like Staff Sgt. Joe N. Wilson, 30, of Crystal Springs, Miss., there was no single, defining event to attend.

The New York Times

Yet, the war remains a defining event in my life.

Huffington Post

No patient developed AIDS defining event during the two years of treatment, while 11 patients experienced a non-AIDS defining event, consisting of pneumonia (n = 5), nephropathy (n = 4), osteoporosis (n = 1) and idiopathic gout (n = 1).

BMC Infectious Diseases

Third, 85% of patients presented with bone disease as the myeloma defining event, including all but two patients with trisomies.

Blood Cancer Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

His reputation has rested on some defining events.

The Guardian

Thatcher's years in office were bookended by two defining events of global significance.

The Guardian

Among the defining events of that time were the disasters in Somalia, Rwanda and the Balkans.

The New York Times - Magazine

"John has had two defining events in his life," Senator Tom Coburn, Republican of Oklahoma, told me.

The New Yorker

Romance lends itself to declarations and defining events, but friendship eludes these things.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "defining event", ensure it clearly identifies an occurrence that has had a lasting impact or has significantly shaped subsequent events or perspectives.

Common error

Avoid labeling every significant event as a "defining event". Overuse diminishes its impact. Reserve it for truly transformative occurrences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining event" functions primarily as a noun phrase. As Ludwig confirms, it describes a specific type of event, one that is significant and influential. The phrase acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

29%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defining event" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase to describe a significant occurrence that shapes subsequent events. Ludwig confirms its correctness. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. While it is considered "Uncommon" in terms of frequency, it still holds a strong presence in various forms of writing. Alternatives like "pivotal moment" or "watershed moment" can add nuance, but should be chosen carefully based on the intended meaning. When using "defining event", ensure the impact of the event is clearly articulated, and avoid overuse to maintain its significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pivotal moment

Emphasizes the turning point aspect of the event.

watershed moment

Implies a significant shift or change resulting from the event.

turning point

Focuses on the change in direction or course caused by the event.

landmark occasion

Highlights the historical importance of the event.

game-changing event

Emphasizes the transformative nature of the event.

critical juncture

Suggests a moment of decision or crisis.

seminal moment

Implies the event had a strong influence on later developments.

moment of truth

Implies a decisive point where the outcome is revealed.

key event

A more straightforward and general alternative.

significant occurrence

Highlights the notability and impact of the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "defining event" to describe a moment or occurrence that significantly shapes something, such as "The war was a "defining event" in the country's history".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "defining event"?

Alternatives to "defining event" include "pivotal moment", "turning point", or "watershed moment", each conveying a slightly different nuance of significance.

Is "defining event" formal or informal language?

"Defining event" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile phrase for various types of writing.

What makes an event a "defining event"?

An event becomes a "defining event" when it fundamentally alters the course of events, shapes perspectives, or leaves a lasting impact on individuals, societies, or systems.