teachable moment

[ tee-chuh-buhl moh-muhnt ]

noun

1. a specific occurrence, situation, or experience that can be used to teach people about something more general:

   Her death created a teachable moment about prescription drug abuse.

Word History and Origins

Origin of teachable moment¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

"When parents feel they've set a bad example, they have a valuable opportunity to turn the situation into a teachable moment."

From Science Daily

Since Trump won the presidency last week, Biden and his team have made a point of highlighting their cooperation, which they see as a teachable moment in a public civics lesson.

From Los Angeles Times

The American people are experiencing a national “teachable moment” about democratic theory.

From Salon

Rios said he understands the concern from parents about the situation and thinks this is a teachable moment.

From Los Angeles Times

Starting the special with voice-mails from your mom and dad was so powerful and also a teachable moment because now I want to save the ones I have from my parents.

From Los Angeles Times