Cusp

A point of transition, either physically or metaphorically; a sharp, projecting point, as on a tooth or the moon; the crucial or decisive moment of something. It can refer to a point of change or a turning point in a person's life, a business, or a specific event. Astronomically, a Cusp refers to the pointed tips of the crescent moon or other celestial bodies. In dentistry, cusps are the pointed or rounded parts of the chewing surfaces of teeth. The term often implies a sense of potential or vulnerability as a person or thing moves from one state to another.

Cusp meaning with examples

• As the company neared the Cusp of bankruptcy, they implemented drastic cost-cutting measures, hoping to avoid complete failure. This was a critical point in their financial history, marking the moment their future would be decided.
• The new marketing campaign positioned the product on the Cusp of innovation, leveraging emerging technologies to attract a new generation of customers. This placed them as leaders in their industry.
• After years of careful research, she stood on the Cusp of a major scientific breakthrough. The data finally aligned and was ready to be published and shared with the world, which was her ultimate goal.
• The patient's illness was on the Cusp of either rapid decline or spontaneous recovery, leaving the doctors watching his condition closely, waiting for the result of tests. The waiting felt agonizing.
• The nation was on the Cusp of a revolution as social unrest grew. The people wanted change but were unsure of what it would bring, as they were afraid for what that might look like.