pinch point

C1Engineering

(technical)A location between moving and stationary parts of a machine where body parts may get caught, leading to injury.

Example

• Operators should be cautious around the pinch points of the machine to avoid injuries.

C1Economics

(technical)The inventory level of a product below which consumers worry about supply security.

Example

• The sudden drop in oil reserves has reached a pinch point, raising concerns about future availability.

B2Traffic

(technical)A road or path section that narrows, causing congestion or bottlenecks.

Example

• Traffic slows down significantly at the pinch point just before the bridge.

C2Mathematics

(technical, academic)A type of singular point on an algebraic surface, often referred to as a cuspidal point.

C1Storytelling

(literary)A plot element that increases tension by highlighting the antagonist's power and nature.

Example

• The first pinch point in the novel occurs when the villain reveals their true intentions.

B2General

Any situation where progress is hindered due to constraints, scarcity, or congestion.

Example

• The construction project hit a pinch point due to a shortage of materials.