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Synonyms

critical period

British  

noun

  1. psychol a period in a lifetime during which a specific stage of development usually occurs. If it fails to do so, it cannot readily occur afterwards

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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.

Without further studies, it isn’t certain that young children can safely use the medications for weight loss without compromising a critical period of growth for their bones and brain.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 26, 2026

“Sudden explosive noise, concussive blasts, and bright flashes have the potential to startle young birds, creating unnecessary risk during a critical period of development.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2026

IPOs conducted from 2007 to 2022, my co-authors and I examined what happens in the critical period just before and after companies go public.

From Salon • Jun. 13, 2026

Over the next two years—a critical period in the AI transition—Wall Street analysts expect Nvidia’s EPS to hit $12.37, giving the stock a P/E of 17 times.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

The exposure and wet garments, which Constance had worn during the most critical period of her delirium, had the customary effect.

From An Oregon Girl A Tale of American Life in the New West by Rice, Alfred Ernest

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