pivot

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'pivot' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean a turning point or critical moment, especially when referring to a situation, process, or project. For example, "The announcement of the new policy was the pivot which changed everything".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Florida senator tried to pivot away from talking about "the challenges we're facing" and instead present an optimistic, albeit vague vision for the United States.

The Guardian

Stepping into the pivot role, Cartwright continued the momentum after dummying twice and producing a neat corner pass for David Simmons three minutes later.

The Guardian - Sport

Egypt could pivot back towards democracy, with a constitution that is genuinely inclusive and objectively administered.

The Guardian - Opinion

You'll also learn how to use pivot tables, enabling you to analyse figures to spot and quantify trends.

The Guardian

Turkey is still a beacon of comparative stability and tolerance at a delicate pivot between Europe and the Middle East.

The Economist

But no one else seems to be listening.The reason for the difference in treatment lies in the fact that the Obama administration has chosen Vietnam as an ally in America's security "pivot" towards Asia.

The Economist

At a time when the Americans are talking of reordering their security priorities with a so-called "pivot" towards Asia, some Chinese commentators have interpreted Mr Xi's decision to visit Russia first as a gesture aimed at America.

The Economist

China, after all, sees the pivot as menacing, despite American efforts to persuade it otherwise.In this section Changing faces Calling Fire Chief Wang A talker or a walker?

The Economist

As Nick Bisley of La Trobe University in Melbourne puts it, it is not a question of Australia's having to choose, but "of having to manage the choice it has made": an alliance with America.China was certainly irked by Australia's agreement in 2011 to play host to 2,500 American marines in its Northern Territory, part of America's "pivot" towards Asia.

The Economist

Iraq brushed off the charge, and the American public responded with a collective shrug.The keystone of the president's diplomacy was and is the "pivot" to Asia.

The Economist

One senior official speaks of a "pivot" away from ever more regulation once resolution is a credible option for banks.In the meantime, the regulators themselves have work to do.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pivot" to describe a change in strategy, clearly articulate the reason for the shift to maintain transparency and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "pivot" simply because it's trendy. Ensure the shift you're describing is significant and strategic, not just a minor adjustment. Focus on the substance of the change rather than the term itself.

Linguistic Context

The word "pivot" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it describes the act of turning or changing direction. As a noun, it refers to a central point or a significant change, as evidenced in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pivot" is a versatile word used as both a noun and a verb, signifying a strategic shift or turning point. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and business. While it's appropriate for formal writing, avoid overusing it as a buzzword. Consider alternatives like "change strategy" or "adjust approach" to add variety to your writing. Remember, effective communication hinges on clarity and precision, so choose your words wisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change strategy

Suggests a deliberate alteration of a plan to achieve a different outcome.

adjust approach

Highlights the modification of a method or technique for improved effectiveness.

reorient priorities

Indicates a change in the relative importance of different goals or objectives.

shift direction

Implies a change in course or orientation, often in response to new information or circumstances.

change tack

Refers to altering the way one deals with a situation, like a sailor changing the sails.

alter course

Focuses on changing the trajectory or path of something, often in a metaphorical sense.

redirect efforts

Emphasizes the reallocation of resources or energy towards a new objective.

make a turn

Suggests a change in direction, either literally or figuratively.

reverse course

Implies going in the opposite direction.

veer

Change direction suddenly.

FAQs

How can I use "pivot" in a sentence?

You can use "pivot" to describe a strategic shift in business, policy, or personal approach. For example, "The company decided to "pivot" its marketing strategy to focus on social media".

What are some alternatives to the word "pivot"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "shift direction", "change strategy", or "adjust approach".

What does it mean to "pivot" in the tech industry?

In the tech industry, to "pivot" often means to fundamentally change the direction of a startup when its initial product or strategy isn't working. It involves leveraging existing knowledge and resources to pursue a new opportunity.

Is it appropriate to use "pivot" in formal writing?

Yes, "pivot" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when discussing strategic changes or shifts in direction. However, ensure that the context clearly supports its use and avoid overuse.