Definition of juncturenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun juncture differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of juncture are contingency, crisis, emergency, exigency, pinch, straits, and strait. While all these words mean "a critical or crucial time or state of affairs," juncture stresses the significant concurrence or convergence of events.

an important juncture in our country's history

In what contexts can contingency take the place of juncture?

While the synonyms contingency and juncture are close in meaning, contingency implies an emergency or exigency that is regarded as possible but uncertain of occurrence.

contingency plans

Where would crisis be a reasonable alternative to juncture?

Although the words crisis and juncture have much in common, crisis applies to a juncture whose outcome will make a decisive difference.

a crisis of confidence

When might emergency be a better fit than juncture?

The words emergency and juncture are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, emergency applies to a sudden unforeseen situation requiring prompt action to avoid disaster.

the presence of mind needed to deal with emergencies

When would exigency be a good substitute for juncture?

While in some cases nearly identical to juncture, exigency stresses the pressure of restrictions or urgency of demands created by a special situation.

provide for exigencies

How does the word pinch relate to other synonyms for juncture?

Pinch implies urgency or pressure for action to a less intense degree than exigency or emergency.

come through in a pinch

How are the words strait and straits related as synonyms of juncture?

Strait, now commonly straits, applies to a troublesome situation from which escape is extremely difficult.

in dire straits

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of juncture Adebayo was replaced on the floor at that juncture by Kel’el Ware. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026 The investigators’ visit comes at a crucial juncture for Pirro’s investigation. Matt Peterson, CNBC, 15 Apr. 2026 For another, Kohl’s needed a turnaround CEO, whereas at Levi’s, Gass inherited a company turned around years earlier by Bergh but where her zest for innovation and experience in running stores could help Levi Strauss grow at a critical juncture in its long history. Phil Wahba, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026 It’s been on display at various junctures this season. Josh Yohe, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for juncture
Recent Examples of Synonyms for juncture
Noun
  • The point of cinematic realism is the inner life, and the miracle of movies is their power to portray subjectivity, though few filmmakers manage to attain that power—even despite their best efforts.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2026
  • The order matters, because most states use figures from the federal tax form as the starting point for their state tax calculations.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • For a standard single-junction solar cell, that ceiling is around 33%.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 13 Apr. 2026
  • That is the junction where a forensic psychosocial evaluation can become a catalyst for justice and promote the human dignity.
    Sonia Singh, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • During the financial crisis in spring 2008, then-candidate Barack Obama dismissed his rivals' calls for a federal gas tax suspension.
    Kathryn Watson, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • The fighting has pushed many people into famine, caused a huge displacement crisis and left over 30 million people in need of humanitarian assistance.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Staff also remembered him as a constant source of support for coworkers — someone who checked in during difficult moments and made sure others were okay.
    Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • Without that moment and that pressure, the bill could easily have stalled like so many others.
    Michael Barasch, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • With officers trailing behind, the suspect sped through a red light, nearly striking cross traffic at an intersection.
    Matthew Rodriguez, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Phipps Plaza At the intersection of Peachtree and Lenox roads, this upscale plaza is one of Atlanta's premier shopping destinations.
    Ellie Nan Storck, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The woman was found with three gunshot wounds to her chest, while the man was shot in the head, police said.
    Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Another man, a 35-year-old, showed up at Temple Hospital's Episcopal Campus with a gunshot wound to his head, police said.
    Tom Ignudo, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • While the situation may feel serious, Lipsher stressed that preparation is about staying ahead of the problem, not panicking.
    Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 13 Apr. 2026
  • In recent weeks, several ships have attempted to transit the strait only to abort their efforts, reflecting a constantly changing security situation and persistently high risks.
    Weilun Soon, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • That series ended with a ruptured Achilles for superstar forward Jayson Tatum, and a battering ram taken to the extremities of a Celtics core that had claimed an NBA title just a season prior.
    Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 10 Apr. 2026
  • For people who naturally have cold extremities, keeping them comfortably warm during sleep can also help maintain more stable sleep.
    Lily Hautau, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Juncture.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/juncture. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.

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