reached the threshold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reached the threshold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a certain limit or point has been achieved, often in contexts related to emotions, experiences, or measurements. Example: "After months of hard work, she finally reached the threshold of her goals and felt a sense of accomplishment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We've reached the threshold in which discussion of obstruction of justice is reasonable," he said.

The New Yorker

The conflict had at this time, according to established definitions, reached the threshold of civil war.

The Guardian

When fear arises, I've reached the threshold between the known and the unknown.

The New York Times

As it happened, we had reached the threshold of the Bhote Koshi's most difficult rapid.

The New York Times - Travel

The pandemic spread through Turkey and reached the threshold of Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the man's case, we believe that this is likely to have reached the threshold of inhuman and degrading treatment".

The Guardian

"I'm telling you, this has not reached the threshold until now, and it's popping up all over the place".

The New Yorker

The researchers have cautioned that the data have not yet reached the threshold for claiming a definitive discovery.

The New York Times

But the news from Newtown, and my colleague's request, convinced me that we have reached the threshold.

The New York Times

At the exact moment that we reached the threshold, Anna awarded us origami cranes, made out of aluminum foil, which we taped onto our shirts like pilot's wings.

The New Yorker

From infancy until he reached the threshold of manhood, the beatings Daniel W. Smith received at his older brother's hands were qualitatively different from routine sibling rivalry.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the implications of having "reached the threshold". Does it trigger a change, require action, or signify completion? Communicating the consequences will add depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "reached the threshold" without clarifying what happens next. The phrase implies a significant change or action should follow. Failing to specify this can leave the reader wondering about the importance of reaching that point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reached the threshold" functions primarily as a verbal phrase indicating the achievement of a specific limit or condition. As Ludwig AI shows, its usage is widespread across diverse contexts, signaling a significant point of transition or completion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reached the threshold" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a specific limit or condition has been met. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used across various reputable sources. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal and informal writing, although careful consideration should be given to clarify the implications of reaching the threshold in each specific context. Common alternatives include "attained the limit" and "arrived at the point".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attained the limit

Focuses on reaching a maximum quantifiable value, differing by emphasizing the achievement of a specific limit.

arrived at the point

Emphasizes reaching a specific stage in a process or argument, varying by highlighting the arrival at a particular juncture.

hit the ceiling

An idiomatic expression meaning to reach a limit, particularly in growth or performance; differs by being more informal.

met the criteria

Specifically relates to fulfilling requirements or standards, changing the context to one of compliance.

satisfied the condition

Similar to meeting criteria, but highlights the fulfillment of a prerequisite or stipulation.

cleared the hurdle

Implies overcoming an obstacle to reach a certain level; varies by introducing the concept of challenge and overcoming.

passed the benchmark

Focuses on exceeding a reference point for evaluation, modifying the emphasis to assessment.

fulfilled the requirement

Highlights the completion of a necessary condition, differing by emphasizing obligation and satisfaction.

surpassed the level

Indicates exceeding a previously established standard, altering the focus to outperforming.

topped out

Suggests reaching the highest possible point or level, especially in a cyclical trend.

FAQs

How can I use "reached the threshold" in a sentence?

You can use "reached the threshold" to indicate that a limit or point has been achieved. For example, "The experiment was stopped when the temperature "reached the threshold" of 100 degrees Celsius".

What are some alternatives to "reached the threshold"?

Alternatives include "attained the limit", "arrived at the point", or "met the criteria", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when something has "reached the threshold"?

When something has "reached the threshold", it signifies that a critical limit or point has been achieved, often triggering a change or requiring a specific action.

Is "reached the threshold" formal or informal language?

"Reached the threshold" is generally considered neutral to formal. It can be used in various contexts, including scientific, news, and business writing.