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

Examples of breaking point in a Sentence

tensions between the two nations had risen to the breaking point
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As personal and financial pressures mount, she's pushed to her breaking point, or, in this case, her last straw. EW.com, 18 June 2025 The big battle with Conquest was the breaking point for Mark, right? Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 17 June 2025 Nearly six months into the year, the U.S. housing market is at a breaking point as inventory continues surging while sales dwindle in the face of chronically low affordability and growing economic uncertainty. Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 June 2025 World soccer’s calendar is already saturated beyond breaking point and shoehorning another major tournament in the summer does very little to allay concerns over players’ welfare. Dan Cancian, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for breaking point

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breaking point was in 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Breaking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breaking%20point. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

breaking point

noun
: the point at which a person gives way under stress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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