entry point

/ˈɛn.tri pɔɪnt/
noun phraseIntermediate a starting place or access point
general

a place, system, or process where access or entry is possible

The city has several entry points for tourists to explore.

The city offers multiple locations where visitors can begin their exploration.

💡

Commonly used in both physical and abstract contexts.

💻Technology
technical

a specific location in code where a program or function begins execution

Debugging often starts by identifying the entry point of the program.

Debugging typically begins by locating where the program starts running.

💡

In programming, this refers to the initial line of code that is executed.

💼Business
Business

a stage or phase in a process where a new participant or element is introduced

The company is looking for new entry points in the Asian market.

The company is seeking opportunities to enter the Asian market.

💡

Used in business to describe strategic points of entry into new markets or industries.

Collocations

main entry pointthe primary access pointmultiple entry pointsseveral ways to access or beginentry point analysisexamining how a system or process is accessed

Related Phrases

single entry pointphrase
one specific way to access a system or process
entry-levelphrase
beginner or introductory

💡Pro Tip

Technical vs. General Use

In programming, 'entry point' refers to the starting line of code, while in general contexts, it describes any starting place or access point.

Gold Rule

Clarity in Context

Always consider the context when using 'entry point'—it can mean different things in technology, business, and physical spaces.

📖Word Origin

From 'entry' (act of entering) + 'point' (specific location or moment). The phrase became widely used in computing in the late 20th century to describe where a program begins execution.

📝Usage Notes

In technical contexts, 'entry point' often refers to the first line of code executed in a program. In business, it describes strategic opportunities to enter new markets. In physical contexts, it refers to a location where access is possible.

Word Breakdown

entry
the act of entering or gaining access
root
+
point
a specific location, moment, or stage
root
English Dictionary