inflection point
Americannoun
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Also called point of inflection. Also called flex point. Mathematics. a point on a curve at which the curvature changes from convex to concave or vice versa.
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a point at which a major or decisive change takes place; critical point.
We’re at an inflection point where we’ll see the technology move forward at a much faster pace.
Etymology
Origin of inflection point
First recorded in 1715–25
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.
This is an inflection point, with Iran poised precariously between old certainties and future possibilities, both at home and abroad.
From BBC ● Jul. 5, 2026
The artificial intelligence boom has been roaring for a few years now, but a few key factors have made this summer a particular inflection point.
From Slate ● Jul. 2, 2026
The gene-sequencing platform, alongside new mass-spectrometry and glucose-monitoring products- mean Roche’s diagnostics business is at its most important inflection point in 25 years, the analysts say in a research note.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 30, 2026
But this is 2026, and healthcare is at a technological inflection point.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 27, 2026
Bringing a drug to market would mark a critical commercial inflection point.
From Barron's ● Jun. 8, 2026
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.