breaking point

noun

1
: the point at which a person gives way under stress
2
: the point at which a situation becomes critical
3
: the point at which something loses force or validity
stretch the rules to the breaking point

Examples of breaking point in a Sentence

tensions between the two nations had risen to the breaking point
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And compounding crises driven by climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and fiscal pressures have pushed the grid to the breaking point, Cecilio Ortiz García, co-founder of the University of Puerto Rico’s National Institute of Energy and Island Sustainability previously told USA TODAY. N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025 The rising cost of essentials such as housing, groceries, healthcare, has outpaced wage growth for many, eroding purchasing power and stretching family budgets to the breaking point. Jack Kelly, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025 The breaking point seems to have stemmed from frontman Roger Daltrey’s apparent displeasure with Starkey’s playing during the concert last month, which was a benefit for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Jem Aswad, Variety, 16 Apr. 2025 Reporter Curtis Bunn spoke to owners across the country who have sold their cars, hit their breaking points or resorted to adoring their car with magnets or bumper stickers expressing their disdain for Musk. Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for breaking point

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breaking point was in 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Breaking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breaking%20point. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

breaking point

noun
: the point at which a person gives way under stress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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