tipping point

American  

noun

1. the point at which an issue, idea, product, etc., crosses a certain threshhold and gains significant momentum, triggered by some minor factor or change.

2. the point in a situation at which a minor development precipitates a crisis.

   Every infected person brings us closer to the tipping point, when the outbreak becomes an epidemic.

3. Physics. the point at which an object is no longer balanced, and adding a small amount of weight can cause it to topple.

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tipping point British  

/ ˈtɪpɪŋ /

noun

1. the crisis stage in a process, when a significant change takes place

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Etymology

Origin of tipping point

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

The tipping point was, on the surface, a typical small-town dispute.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Maybe this is a tipping point for schools saying maybe it’s time to make a big change with the rule,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

There comes a tipping point where enough people are using a tool and then the mandate comes.

From The Wall Street Journal

"At present we do not know when the tipping point will be reached."

From Science Daily

The market for secondhand luxury goods is approaching a tipping point, but many brands can’t decide which way to jump.

From The Wall Street Journal