Definitions

critical mass

[krit-i-kuhl mas] / ˈkrɪt ɪ kəl ˈmæs /

NOUN

crucial point

Synonyms

WEAK

climax crisis crisis point critical juncture critical point critical stage crossroads crucial moment crunch time decisive moment defining moment do or die time emergency high noon irreversible momentum moment of truth pivotal point point of no return sink or swim time the Rubicon turning point 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.

In a fragmented media world where critical mass is becoming harder to attain, Navarro has become one of media’s most recognizable political talking heads thanks to her two high-profile TV roles.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

Participants at the Santa Marta meeting believe the real purpose of the meeting is to show those who are hesitating about the transition that there is a critical mass moving in favour of renewables.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Wood Mackenzie reckons the metals-intensive energy transition has, in the meantime, reached critical mass and will continue independently of political influences.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

"It'll hit a critical mass at some point, and maybe become as commonplace as smartwatches or glasses," he said.

From Barron's • Jan. 8, 2026

As more join in, they seem to reach a critical mass, a quorum, and the thinking begins.

From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas

critical mass

Example Sentences

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