Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for critical period. Search instead for criteria prior.
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.

Changes in the ability to see clearly and correctly were limited in older children, while the youngest children had more improvement as the treatment was delivered during a critical period of visual development.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

They were able to reconstruct aspects of the victims' origins and the events that led to their deaths, offering a clearer and more detailed picture of Neanderthal behavior during a critical period in human history.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

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

The treatment of Julian during this critical period of his life must have been altogether injurious to the healthy development of his character.

From Sermons by Lightfoot, J. B.