pivotal event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pivotal event" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a significant and essential event that has a major impact on the course of a situation, story, or outcome. Example: The discovery of a potential cure for the disease was a pivotal event in the medical field, leading to groundbreaking advancements in treatment.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a pivotal event.

The Economist

The pivotal event was the first-ever televised presidential debate.

The New York Times

"Raging Bull" is, in the Scorsese mythology, the pivotal event.

The New Yorker

It has proved a pivotal event in the bilateral relationship.

The New York Times

Obama rightly regarded his re-election as a pivotal event.

The New York Times - Books

It was not merely the pivotal event of the decade for the N.H.L.; it was perhaps the pivotal event in the modern history of pro hockey.

The New York Times

"Potentially, this may be a pivotal event in actually contributing to us winning the election".

The Guardian

That's quite an achievement given that the pivotal event is a high-school massacre.

The Guardian - Film

The opening is a pivotal event for the company and a bellwether for the industry.

The New York Times

That episode may well have been the pivotal event in Walker's ministerial career.

The Guardian

Beckman positions the necklace imbroglio as a pivotal event in the French trajectory to regicide.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pivotal event", provide sufficient context to explain its significance. Avoid vague references; instead, detail why the event is considered pivotal.

Common error

Avoid labeling every significant event as "pivotal". Reserve this term for occurrences with genuinely transformative and far-reaching consequences. Overuse dilutes its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pivotal event" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, specifying that the event is of critical importance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pivotal event" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a significant turning point. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent appearance in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. While it's versatile enough for both formal and informal settings, it's essential to avoid overuse and clearly articulate why an event qualifies as "pivotal". Using alternative phrases like "turning point" or "watershed moment" can add nuance to your writing. Remember to provide sufficient context to explain the event's significance, as highlighted by the usage guidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turning point

Replaces "event" with a more metaphorical term.

watershed moment

Emphasizes a significant shift or change in direction.

critical juncture

Highlights the importance of timing and decision-making.

decisive turning point

Adds emphasis to the turning point.

significant occurrence

Uses a more general term for "event" while retaining importance.

major development

Focuses on the aspect of progress or change.

key milestone

Implies progress toward a specific goal.

moment of truth

Emphasizes a crucial decision or revelation.

game changer

Highlights a factor that dramatically alters the situation.

landmark event

Stresses the historical importance of the occurrence.

FAQs

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

Use "pivotal event" to describe a moment that significantly changes the course of events. For example, "The invention of the printing press was a "pivotal event" in the history of communication".

What's a good alternative to "pivotal event"?

Alternatives to "pivotal event" include "turning point", "watershed moment", or "critical juncture", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "pivotal event" formal or informal?

"Pivotal event" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What makes an event "pivotal"?

An event is "pivotal" when it marks a significant turning point, leading to substantial changes or new directions. It's an event whose impact is considerable and lasting.