point of collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "point of collapse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a critical moment or threshold where something fails or breaks down, often in a physical, emotional, or structural context. Example: "The bridge was nearing its point of collapse after years of neglect and heavy traffic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The crisis has weakened the government almost to the point of collapse.

The New York Times

The economy has already been squeezed to the point of collapse, he argues.

The Economist

With his Somali armies, Aḥmad had harried Ethiopia almost to the point of collapse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most worked to the point of collapse, risking their lives against an unfathomable killer.

The New York Times - Books

You want them to be tender to the point of collapse.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Some things we filmed to the point of collapse," Ms Lane says.

The New York Times

Then why do people push themselves to the point of collapse in these events?

The New York Times

Now add the potato to the fishy broth and simmer to a point of collapse.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet Bishop was drinking to the point of collapse, even with Methfessel nearby.

The New Yorker

Although America's economy no longer looks on the point of collapse, it has failed to return to healthy growth.

The Economist

In Cambodia, meanwhile, garment workers stitching clothes that supply the UK high street are malnourished to the point of collapse.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about complex systems or situations, use "point of collapse" to emphasize a critical threshold where failure becomes imminent. It adds a sense of urgency and gravity to the description.

Common error

Avoid using "point of collapse" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a weight and seriousness that may be disproportionate to lighter topics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "point of collapse" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a complement to verbs like 'reach', 'near', or 'be on'. Ludwig examples show it denoting a critical threshold or a state of imminent failure in various systems or structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "point of collapse" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a state of imminent failure or breakdown. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase appears frequently in news media, scientific, and formal contexts. While it effectively conveys a sense of urgency and criticality, it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse in informal settings. Related phrases like "breaking point" or "verge of failure" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

breaking point

This alternative suggests a limit beyond which something cannot withstand further stress.

verge of failure

Indicates being on the brink of not succeeding or functioning.

threshold of breakdown

Highlights the limit where a system or structure begins to fail.

edge of disintegration

Conveys a sense of something falling apart or losing cohesion.

brink of ruin

Suggests being very close to destruction or a state of disrepair.

precipice of disaster

Implies being on the verge of a catastrophic event or situation.

critical juncture

Focuses on a decisive moment that determines potential failure.

state of crisis

Describes a time of intense difficulty or danger that could lead to collapse.

moment of downfall

Emphasizes the specific instant when something collapses or fails.

terminal stage

Implies the final phase leading to inevitable collapse.

FAQs

How can I use "point of collapse" in a sentence?

You can use "point of collapse" to describe when a system, structure, or entity is on the verge of failing or breaking down. For example, "The economy was nearing its "point of collapse" due to the financial crisis."

What are some alternatives to using "point of collapse"?

Alternatives include "breaking point", "verge of failure", or "edge of disintegration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "point of collapse" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "point of collapse" when describing situations of extreme stress, fragility, or imminent failure in formal and serious contexts, such as in news reports, academic papers, or professional analyses.

Is "nearing its point of collapse" grammatically correct?

Yes, "nearing its point of collapse" is grammatically correct. It accurately describes something approaching a state of breakdown. Other options such as 'close to the "point of collapse"' are equally valid.