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reach a boiling point
/riːtʃ ə ˈbɔɪ.lɪŋ pɔɪnt/◆idiom
to become extremely angry or tense
The argument reached a boiling point when both sides refused to compromise.
The argument became extremely tense when both sides refused to compromise.
informal
To reach a state of extreme anger, tension, or conflict where something must be resolved immediately.
The negotiations reached a boiling point when the union threatened to strike.
The negotiations became extremely tense when the union threatened to strike.
The team's frustration reached a boiling point after another loss.
The team's frustration became extreme after another loss.
This idiom is often used to describe situations where emotions or conflicts escalate to a critical level.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use this phrase when describing situations where emotions or conflicts have escalated to an extreme level.
Gold Rule
Key Rule
This idiom is not used literally but figuratively to describe emotional or situational tension.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the literal process of heating water until it boils, symbolizing the point of no return or extreme tension.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe escalating conflicts or emotions.
Word Breakdown
reach
to arrive at or achieve
roota boiling point
the point at which water boils, symbolizing extreme tension
phraseEnglish Dictionary