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
Synonyms
Examples of breaking point in a Sentence
tensions between the two nations had risen to the breaking point
Recent Examples on the Web
Last to note is that some of you may be on the breaking point to reach a major personal milestone, an aspiration or a long-term goal.
—
Kyle Thomas, Peoplemag, 4 Sep. 2024
But recent experience suggests that the FDA’s flexibility may be reaching its breaking point.
—Aaron S. Kesselheim, Washington Post, 22 July 2024
For Nelson, the breaking point came when Vance offered vocal support for an Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care in 2021.
—Samantha Riedel, Them, 19 July 2024
But that sort of talk serves only to escalate tensions, widen our divisions and push the country closer to a political breaking point.
—Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for breaking point 
Kyle Thomas, Peoplemag, 4 Sep. 2024
But recent experience suggests that the FDA’s flexibility may be reaching its breaking point.
—Aaron S. Kesselheim, Washington Post, 22 July 2024
For Nelson, the breaking point came when Vance offered vocal support for an Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care in 2021.
—Samantha Riedel, Them, 19 July 2024
But that sort of talk serves only to escalate tensions, widen our divisions and push the country closer to a political breaking point.
—Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for breaking point
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'breaking point.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near breaking point
Cite this Entry
“Breaking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breaking%20point. Accessed 17 Sep. 2024.
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