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pivotal moment

NOUN
turning point
Synonyms
STRONGEST
climax critical point crux culmination juncture twist
WEAK
axis change climacteric contingency crisis critical mass critical moment critical period 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 point of no return race against time rising action shift strait transition turn of the tide when push comes to shove zero hour
NOUN
zero hour
Synonyms
WEAK
A-day D-day H-hour appointed hour climax contingency countdown crisis crisis point crossroad crossroads crunch time deadline emergency exigency jumping-off point juncture moment of truth pinch start time strait target target day the time turning point vital moment

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.

The recent publication of confidential Supreme Court memoranda by The New York Times has brought to light a pivotal moment in the court’s history.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2026

It was such a pivotal moment at a time in my life and I take that label with me wherever I go, so it doesn’t feel too distant.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

But at the pivotal moment, Mullins rose up and swished the game-winner from 35 feet away.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Britain also said in a recent submission that it believes "the WTO is at a pivotal moment", warning that "without reform it will slide into irrelevance".

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

There was no pivotal moment of creative difference, no storming or flouncing out.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan