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

• crisis
• crossroad(s)
• boiling point
• head
• flash point
• point of no return

Examples of breaking point in a Sentence

tensions between the two nations had risen to the breaking point

Recent Examples on the Web

For most, sabbaticals emerge from personal or professional breaking points. —Aparna Rae, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025

Today, the term has evolved to mean reaching a breaking point due to excessive stress or emotional overwhelm.56 Many things can trigger crashing out, depending on the person. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 20 July 2025

These new mandates will push it to the breaking point. —Gregory J. Morris, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025

Cameras picked back up to capture the breakup and escalating tension between the couple with Cartwright reaching a breaking point. —Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for breaking point

• counterpoint
• disappoint
• multipoint
• needlepoint
• reappoint
• adjoint
• anoint
• appoint
• checkpoint
• conjoint
• disjoint
• endpoint

Medical Definition

breaking point

noun

: the point at which a person gives way under stress