only at this point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only at this point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a specific moment in time or a particular stage in a process where something is true or applicable. Example: "Only at this point can we assess the full impact of the changes made to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Only at this point did she discover how it could have been prevented.

The Guardian

And for some people Calder starts to become interesting only at this point.

The New York Times - Arts

Only at this point does he realize that the bar is almost empty.

The New Yorker

It is only at this point that Coleridge reveals that he is "always cautious".

The Guardian

Only at this point does he make a claim for things finally going right.

The New York Times - Books

It was only at this point that the male guards gave up.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Tokyo-based Plaza Create started selling a recycable digital camera [JP, PDF] this weekend (Japan-only at this point).

TechCrunch

It's Japan-only at this point, however.

TechCrunch

It's Japan-only at this point.

TechCrunch

The fridge is Nippon-only at this point.

TechCrunch

The device is Japan-only at this point.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only at this point" to create a sense of delayed realization or to emphasize a specific condition that must be met before something else can occur.

Common error

Avoid using "only at this point" in overly simple narratives where a more direct temporal marker (like "then" or "afterward") would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound stilted or overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only at this point" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a specific time or stage when an action or realization occurs. The examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, highlighting the temporal aspect.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only at this point" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase that indicates a specific time when something becomes clear or possible. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness in written English. While the phrase is most common in news and media contexts, it is important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in simple narratives. Consider alternatives like "only then" or "at this stage" for stylistic variation. Using it effectively can add emphasis and a sense of delayed realization to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only then

Focuses on the temporal aspect, indicating that something happens after a specific condition is met; less specific about a process or stage.

at this juncture

Implies a critical point in time or a stage in a process, similar to the original phrase but more formal.

at this stage

Highlights a particular phase or step in a sequence, differing in that it doesn't necessarily imply a delayed realization.

at this moment

Emphasizes the immediacy of the situation, differing in that it doesn't always refer to a culmination of prior events.

not until this time

Highlights the lateness of the action or realization.

only at that instant

Emphasizes the precise moment of occurrence.

exclusively at this time

Stresses exclusivity and timing, indicating limited availability or application.

solely at this juncture

Combines the ideas of exclusivity and a critical point in time.

just at this point

Emphasizes the exact timing of the event or realization, adding a sense of precision.

merely at this stage

Suggests that the action or realization is limited to the current phase or step.

FAQs

How can I use "only at this point" in a sentence?

"Only at this point" is used to indicate a specific moment when something becomes clear or possible. For example: "Only at this point did I realize the importance of his advice."

What phrases are similar to "only at this point"?

Alternatives include "only then", "at this juncture", or "at this stage". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "only at this point"?

While grammatically correct, overuse or using it in simple narratives might sound awkward. Simpler temporal markers like "then" or "afterward" might be better suited in some contexts.

What is the difference between "only at this point" and "at this point"?

"Only at this point" emphasizes a delayed realization or a specific condition being met, whereas "at this point" simply indicates a current state or stage.