watershed event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "watershed event" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a significant turning point or moment that marks a change in a situation or development. Example: "The signing of the peace treaty was a watershed event in the history of the region, leading to years of stability and cooperation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mass transit ridership increased last weekend, but only 10 to 15 percent - hardly a watershed event.

The New York Times

Andrew Gitkin, an analyst at UBS Warburg, called the deal a "watershed event" for Isis of Carlsbad, Calif.

The New York Times

Bear Stearns saw the announcement as a "watershed event" for Apple and maintained its "outperform" rating and $100 price target on the stock.

Forbes

President Obama called the announcement a "watershed event".

Huffington Post

"We're seeing a watershed event".

The New York Times

This was a watershed event.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a watershed event.

The New York Times

President Obama hailed the announcement as "a watershed event".

The New York Times

"Being able to return here -- it's a watershed event".

The New York Times

These elections were a watershed event for India.

The New York Times

"Standardizing administrative transactions," AHIP asserted, "will be a watershed event".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "watershed event", ensure the context clearly establishes the significance of the event and its lasting impact. Provide specific details to illustrate why it represents a turning point.

Common error

Avoid labeling an event as a "watershed event" if its long-term consequences are uncertain or minimal. Ensure the event truly represents a major shift or transformation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "watershed event" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies a particular occurrence as a pivotal moment. As seen in Ludwig, it’s used to describe key turning points.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "watershed event" is a commonly used phrase to denote a significant turning point. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While alternatives like "turning point" or "historic moment" exist, "watershed event" distinctly emphasizes transformative impact. Remember to use it when an event has demonstrably altered the course of future developments, avoiding overstatement. This phrase finds frequent usage in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turning point

Focuses on the moment of change rather than the impact of the event.

decisive turning point

It adds emphasis to the importance of the turning point.

historic moment

Emphasizes the importance of the event for posterity.

game changer

Indicates that the event fundamentally alters the existing situation.

defining moment

Focuses on the event's role in shaping the identity or future of something.

critical juncture

Highlights the decisive nature of the event and its potential consequences.

landmark occasion

Suggests that the event sets a new precedent or standard.

pivotal episode

Underlines the event's role as a key factor in subsequent developments.

monumental occurrence

Emphasizes the scale and impact of the event.

significant development

Offers a more general description of an important event without highlighting its transformative nature.

FAQs

What does "watershed event" mean?

A "watershed event" refers to a turning point or significant moment that marks a major shift or change in direction. It implies that things will be different after the event.

What can I say instead of "watershed event"?

You can use alternatives like "turning point", "historic moment", or "pivotal event" depending on the context.

Is "watershed moment" the same as "watershed event"?

"Watershed moment" and "watershed event" are largely interchangeable. Both describe a significant turning point. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

How to use "watershed event" in a sentence?

Example: "The invention of the internet was a "watershed event" that revolutionized communication."