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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

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

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 middle of the past century seems to have been a critical period in the mining industry of the earth.

From The Business of Mining A brief non-technical exposition of the principles involved in the profitable operation of mines by Hoskin, Arthur J.