the point at which

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "the point at which" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a moment in time or a stage in a process when something changes or happens. For example, "The point at which we made the decision changed the course of our lives forever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's the point at which she'll reassess.

The New York Times

That's the point at which it becomes comparable.

The Washington Post

This is the point at which things start to stabilize.

The Washington Post

The point at which the cave first begins to narrow.

The New York Times

Yes, this is the point at which America gets demeaned.

The Washington Post

That is the point at which this debate should begin.

The Washington Post

Q: The point at which the attack was commenced.

The New York Times

This is generally the point at which decline becomes inevitable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Was that the point at which Brazil fell apart?

Independent

It was the point at which there is only prayer.

Independent

"That's the point at which value is created.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the point at which" to clearly mark transitions or critical junctures in a narrative or process. This helps readers understand the sequence of events and their relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "the point at which" in simple sentences where "when" or "where" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal and clunky.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the point at which" functions as an adverbial phrase introducing a clause that specifies a time or stage. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and widely used. It typically modifies a verb or clause, indicating when something occurs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

39%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the point at which" is a grammatically sound phrase used to specify a particular moment or stage when something happens. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in various writing contexts. While predominantly found in news, academic, and scientific sources, its usage tends toward a more formal register. For clarity, consider simpler alternatives like "when" in informal settings, avoiding overuse to maintain a natural tone. Remember, the phrase's strength lies in its ability to pinpoint specific moments of change or decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the moment when

Focuses on a specific instant in time rather than a broader stage or condition.

the stage where

Emphasizes a phase or step in a process, rather than a precise instant.

the time that

A more general way to indicate a moment in time.

when

A concise way to introduce a clause describing a specific time or condition.

the instant that

Highlights the immediacy and abruptness of the event.

the juncture when

Suggests a critical or decisive moment of connection or transition.

the occasion when

Refers to a specific event or instance.

at which time

A formal alternative to indicate the time when something happens.

upon which

Suggests an event that immediately follows or depends on another.

the turning point where

Emphasizes a significant change in direction or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "the point at which" in a sentence?

Use "the point at which" to specify a particular time or stage when something happens or changes. For example, "the point at which the river meets the sea marks a significant ecological boundary".

What are some alternatives to "the point at which"?

Alternatives include "when", "the moment when", or "the stage where". Choose the alternative that best fits the context and desired level of formality.

Is "the point at which" formal or informal?

"The point at which" leans towards a more formal register. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "when" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "the point at which" and "when"?

"The point at which" is more specific and emphatic, highlighting a particular moment of change or decision. "When" is a more general term referring to a time or circumstance.