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Showing results for critical period.
Definitions

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.

Some scientists said that infancy can be a critical period to shape the microbiome, and potentially prevent disease and improve health later on.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

The trajectory of the market will depend on where costs are during a critical period beginning in late January.

From Barron's • Jan. 6, 2026

Instead, early life is a critical period for the immune system to learn to recognise friend from foe.

From BBC • May 28, 2024

The critical period for the fall-run salmon in the Sacramento is while the eggs are incubating in their gravel beds.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2024

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.