point of reckoning

USAGE SUMMARY

"point of reckoning" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a time or event where an issue or problem is decided or settled, or to refer to a critical moment when something is judged or considered. For example, "The point of reckoning has finally come; after years of accusations, the court has reached its verdict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I say "decides," but Mr. Stephens doesn't give us a visible point of reckoning.

The New York Times

Do not be surprised that some Croats carry such feelings to the point of reckoning that the place for Croatia's champions is on court, not in it.

The Economist

Now his subjects are 42, that point of reckoning associated with the American 25th high school reunion, and have a strong sense of ambitions realized or thwarted.

The New York Times

Education and research have reached the point of reckoning with the edifice of mechanistic thinking behind the industrial-age based on how to manufacture, use energy and depend on materialistic consumption.

Yale University

And if this house now demands that at this moment, faced with this threat from this regime, that British troops are pulled back, that we turn away at the point of reckoning, and that is what it means - what then?

The Guardian

"If and when that point of reckoning occurs, then perhaps Beijing will revisit how it structures these loans". Already, researchers have uncovered signs that China's starting to shift its approach to lending, researcher Xiaojun Li from the University of British Columbia says.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Some of the greatest soul songs of all time — Otis Redding's "These Arms of Mine," say, or Bill Withers's "Ain't No Sunshine" — are points of reckoning, reflections, admissions of culpability sung purely and without guile, because what's it matter now?

The New Yorker

Some of the greatest soul songs of all time Otis Redding's "These Arms of Mine," say, or Bill Withers's "Ain't No Sunshine"—are points of reckoning, reflections, admissions of culpability sung purely and without guile, because what's it matter now?

The New Yorker

And from Germany's point of view, the reckoning has been delayed until after its election in the autumn of 2013.

The Economist

And as I've said in my speech to the joint session of Congress, at some point there is a day of reckoning.

The New York Times

Some people are suspicious of the trend to shorter and shorter productions, but the length of plays has actually been shrinking since the 16th century.In fact, plays have been shrinking to the point of anorexia, reckons the critic Michael Billington.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "point of reckoning" to add gravitas to a situation, implying that a critical assessment or decision is imminent. This phrase is particularly effective when discussing long-term consequences or significant shifts in strategy.

Common error

Avoid using "point of reckoning" for minor decisions or everyday occurrences. Its strength lies in its ability to convey the weight and importance of a truly critical juncture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "point of reckoning" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It designates a specific time or event when consequences or judgments are realized. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "point of reckoning" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a crucial moment of judgment or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Although not overly frequent, it appears most commonly in news and academic contexts. When using this phrase, consider its serious tone and reserve it for situations where you want to emphasize the significance of an impending evaluation or consequence. Alternatives such as ""moment of truth"" or ""critical juncture"" can provide similar emphasis with slight variations in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moment of truth

Emphasizes the decisive nature of the moment, focusing on the revelation of reality.

critical juncture

Highlights the importance of the moment as a turning point or intersection of events.

decisive moment

Focuses on the moment's capacity to determine a future outcome.

turning point

Indicates a significant change in direction or course of events.

crunch time

Suggests a period of intense pressure and critical importance.

moment of decision

Highlights the need for making an important choice.

day of judgment

Implies a final assessment or evaluation, often with serious consequences.

hour of reckoning

Similar to "day of judgment", but with a sense of immediacy and urgency.

climactic moment

Emphasizes the peak or most intense part of a series of events.

final showdown

Suggests a conclusive confrontation or resolution of a conflict.

FAQs

What does "point of reckoning" mean?

The phrase "point of reckoning" refers to a time when actions are judged and consequences are faced. It often signifies a critical moment of truth or decision.

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

You might say, "The company's financial struggles reached a "point of reckoning" when bankruptcy loomed".

What are some alternatives to "point of reckoning"?

Consider using phrases like "moment of truth", "critical juncture", or "decisive moment" as alternatives.

Is "point of reckoning" formal or informal?

The phrase can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to lend a more serious tone to the discussion.