crunch time

noun

: a critical moment or period (as near the end of a game) when decisive action is needed

Examples of crunch time in a Sentence

The team had trained well, but at crunch time they just couldn't perform. with only three minutes left in the game, it was definitely crunch time
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.
The run, made possible in part because of five KU turnovers in the final three minutes, stretched to 15-5 as KU wilted in crunch time. Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2025 Ball didn’t simply jack up shots during crunch time against the Lakers, hoping to shoot the Hornets into a victory. Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2025 Middleton’s absence has been glaring, especially in crunch time, and Kuzma’s struggles have only amplified Milwaukee’s disarray. Brian Sampson, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 That goes for everyone, but especially Donaldson in crunch time. Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 22 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for crunch time

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crunch time was in 1933

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Cite this Entry

“Crunch time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crunch%20time. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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