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

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

Even so, scientists still lack a complete understanding of how the brain's complex networks are shaped during this critical period.

From Science Daily • Jan. 16, 2026

The authorities at the park say additional monitoring and protection measures have been put in place to ensure the twins' survival during this critical period.

From BBC • Jan. 7, 2026

This was a critical period in the conflict which had gradually involved the principal countries and was watched with apprehension by all the sovereigns of Europe.

From The History of Cuba, vol. 2 by Johnson, Willis Fletcher

critical period

Example Sentences

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