tipping point

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.

tipping point

/ ˈtɪpɪŋ /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of tipping point¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Lurie is the founder of Tipping Point, a San Francisco nonprofit that funds efforts to lift people out of poverty.

From Los Angeles Times

He showcased his role as founder of Tipping Point, a San Francisco nonprofit that funds efforts to lift people out of poverty, to highlight his commitment to solving intractable problems.

From Los Angeles Times

Lurie responded by touting his role as founder of Tipping Point, a San Francisco nonprofit that funds efforts to lift people out of poverty, to highlight his commitment to solving intractable problems.

From Los Angeles Times

"We are at a tipping point and the choice we have today is a choice between general mobilisation or the Mexicanisation of the country," he said, alluding to Mexico's widespread issues with street crime and violence perpetrated by drug cartels.

From BBC

We’re going through a tipping point.

From Los Angeles Times