pivotal breakthrough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pivotal breakthrough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant and crucial advancement or discovery in a particular field or context. Example: "The scientist's research led to a pivotal breakthrough in cancer treatment, changing the course of medical history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It was a simple but pivotal breakthrough: they had created an animal model of Zika infection with which to test a pilot vaccine.

The New Yorker

That pivotal breakthrough moment for most entrepreneurs is not kismet or divine will, but the culmination of years of planning and hard work.

The Guardian

The pivotal breakthrough in this blue quest came in December, when Nichia Chemical Industries of Japan announced that it had built the first continuous blue laser, capable of zapping an unblinking beam of amplified blue light.

Forbes

And much to my surprise, what felt like the most painful breakdown of my life, gave way to the most pivotal breakthrough I could ever imagine.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He was internationally renowned for his pioneering work in aerosol technology, which resulted in pivotal breakthroughs in a variety of areas, most notably in the treatment of asthma.

The New York Times

Despite pivotal breakthroughs in international negotiations, Rouhani faces increasing pressure on the domestic front as he balances the concerns of a rigid conservative camp against the grievances of voters grappling with sociocultural restrictions, unemployment and downward social mobility.

The Guardian

In the afternoon that followed, his taking of the first wicket in Shane Watson and totem in Clarke were the pivotal breakthroughs in an exhausting war of attrition.

BBC

For armchair fans, so pivotal to the breakthrough of this serene sport, the rule is a needless obstacle to enjoyment.

The Guardian - Sport

Through playing the gay character Sean Tully in Coronation Street and taking a pivotal role in a breakthrough gay-parenting storyline with fellow actor Charlie Condou, Cotton has done much to break down prejudice among the show's massive UK audience.

The Guardian

Mankoff succeeded Lorenz in 1997, only four years after his own breakthrough cartoon, during a pivotal point for the department.

Vice

I saw Kittie live at Ozzfest 2000 in Sacramento, and it was such pivotal moment for me in my breakthrough with anxiety and battles with religious guilt.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pivotal breakthrough" to emphasize the crucial and transformative nature of a discovery or advancement.

Common error

Avoid using "pivotal breakthrough" to describe minor improvements or changes. Reserve it for genuinely significant and impactful advancements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pivotal breakthrough" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant and crucial advancement, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pivotal breakthrough" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant and crucial advancement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While relatively rare, it appears in authoritative sources such as The New Yorker and The Guardian. When writing, reserve "pivotal breakthrough" for genuinely impactful discoveries to avoid diluting its meaning. Alternatives such as "significant innovation" or "key advancement" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Key advancement

Highlights the progressive nature and crucial role of the advancement.

Critical discovery

Emphasizes the discovery aspect, underlining its essential nature.

Essential progress

Focuses on the necessary and vital nature of the progress.

Significant innovation

Focuses on the innovative aspect of the breakthrough, emphasizing its importance.

Major leap forward

Conveys a sense of significant progress and advancement.

Game-changing development

Highlights the transformative impact of the development.

Revolutionary innovation

Stresses the radical and transformative nature of the innovation.

Landmark achievement

Emphasizes the historical importance and significance of the achievement.

Decisive step

Emphasizes the importance of this step in leading to a resolution or result.

Fundamental shift

Highlights the change in approach or understanding that the breakthrough represents.

FAQs

How to use "pivotal breakthrough" in a sentence?

Use "pivotal breakthrough" to describe a significant and crucial advancement or discovery in a particular field or context. For example, "The discovery was a "pivotal breakthrough" in the fight against cancer".

What can I say instead of "pivotal breakthrough"?

You can use alternatives like "key advancement", "critical discovery", or "significant innovation" depending on the context.

What makes a breakthrough "pivotal"?

A breakthrough is considered "pivotal" when it represents a turning point or a critical juncture, leading to significant changes or advancements in a particular field or situation. It signifies a decisive moment with lasting impact.

Is "pivotal breakthrough" a formal or informal term?

"Pivotal breakthrough" is generally considered a neutral to formal term suitable for use in academic, professional, and news contexts. It conveys a sense of importance and significance, making it appropriate for serious discussions and reports.