critical period

NOUN

turning point

Synonyms

STRONGEST

climax critical point crux culmination juncture twist

WEAK

axis change climacteric contingency crisis critical mass critical moment crossing crossroads crucial moment crucial occurrence crucial period crunch cusp decisive moment defining moment development emergency exigency high noon hinge kairotic moment moment of truth nexus pass peak peripeteia pinch pivot pivotal moment point of no return race against time rising action shift strait transition turn of the tide when push comes to shove zero hour

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Rivian faces “a critical period of execution,” Barclays analyst Dan Levy wrote in a recent report.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

Over the next two years—a critical period in the AI transition—Wall Street analysts expect Nvidia’s EPS to hit $12.37, giving the stock a P/E of 17 times.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

“The real critical period is going to be the next 90 days,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

"We were deeply dismayed by the lack of seriousness shown by some executive colleagues during this critical period, including persistent briefing against others and the leaking of confidential information."

From BBC • Nov. 21, 2025

The fact that Commander Babcock was my associate during this critical period was a fortunate thing for me, and a still more fortunate thing for the United States.

From The Victory At Sea by Hendrick, Burton J.

critical period

Example Sentences

Related Words