Breaking point is a term that is commonly used in various fields such as psychology, engineering, and sports. It refers to the moment when someone or something can no longer handle a particular situation or stress. This article will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of breaking point, as well as its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Breaking point is defined as the moment when a person or thing can no longer endure or cope with a situation, stress, or pressure. It is the point where a person or thing reaches their limit and can no longer function properly. In psychology, breaking point refers to the moment when a person’s mental or emotional state becomes overwhelmed and they can no longer cope with their thoughts and feelings.
Origin
The term breaking point originated in the 19th century and was first used in the engineering field to describe the point at which a material would break under stress. The term was later adopted by the military to describe the point at which a soldier would break under the stress of combat. Over time, the term has evolved to include a broader range of situations and contexts.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, breaking point is defined as the point at which physical, emotional, or mental strength gives way under stress. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as the point where a person or thing can no longer function effectively. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as the moment when a person or thing can no longer cope with a difficult situation.
Associations
Breaking point is often associated with stress, pressure, and tension. It is also associated with mental and emotional breakdowns, as well as physical exhaustion. In sports, breaking point refers to the moment when an athlete reaches their physical limit and can no longer continue.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of breaking point include limit, threshold, tipping point, breaking stress, and critical point.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of breaking point include resilience, endurance, stamina, and fortitude.
The same root words
The root words of breaking point are “break” and “point.” “Break” means to separate into pieces or to fail to work properly, while “point” refers to a particular moment or situation.
Example Sentences
- The stress of his job finally pushed him to his breaking point.
- The bridge collapsed because it had reached its breaking point under the weight of the traffic.
- The athlete pushed herself to the breaking point in order to win the race.
- The company was on the brink of bankruptcy before it reached its breaking point and had to close its doors.
- The soldier’s mental and emotional state had reached its breaking point after months of combat.