juncture - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
juncture Word Meanings
- a point of joining or connection
- a critical moment in time or event
- a place where two things meet or cross, especially in a road
juncture Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
juncture Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒʌŋk.tʃə/
US
/ˈdʒʌŋk.tʃɚ/
juncture Word Etymology
Junctor (Latin: junctus = joined) + -ure (suffix indicating an action or result). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine two paths coming together at a fork in the woods, representing a critical decision point in life.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Juncture is a formal noun meaning a point where things join or converge, and also a critical moment in time when events align and a decision is needed. It often appears in phrases like at this juncture or at a crucial juncture, signaling a turning point in a process. In everyday writing, you might replace it with moment or point, but juncture emphasizes both the joining and the significance of the moment. It can also describe a place where two things meet, especially in specialized contexts (for roads, use junction or intersection). Etymology traces to Latin junctus, via Old French, and into English. Learners sometimes confuse it with junction; remember that juncture is more about moments or convergence than a mere crossing.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal contexts only
- Do not confuse with junction, which is a physical road crossing
- Common idioms: at this juncture, at this crucial juncture
- Prefer this word to express convergence or significant moments, not simple timing
- Avoid overuse in everyday spoken English; reserve for essays or reports
- Check whether you need a metaphorical or literal sense before choosing a synonym
Common Misconceptions
- Juncture always means a road intersection; use junction for that.
- It only refers to time moments, never to physical places.
- It can be used in casual speech without sounding pretentious.
- Junction and juncture are interchangeable in all contexts.
- It is a verb form when used in literary contexts.
Thinking Differences
English often frames juncture as a formal, point-in-time moment of convergence or decision. Learners may treat it as a synonym for any moment or overuse it in casual speech, or confuse it with junction (a physical road crossing).
Learning Tips
- Read formal prose to hear how juncture is used in context
- List common collocations like at this juncture
- Keep a separate note for the difference with junction
- Practice turning points in summaries or histories
- Replace with simpler terms in casual speech to sound natural
- Compare translations in bilingual texts to see nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'juncture' mean?
A.A musical instrument
B.A small insect
C.A point of time, especially a critical one
D.A type of fruit
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'juncture' used correctly?
A.He junctured the book to the shelf.
B.She bought a new juncture of shoes.
C.At this juncture, we need to make a decision.
D.The dog junctured the ball.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'juncture'?
A.Possess
B.Depart
C.Merge
D.Separate
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'juncture'?
A.Occurrence
B.Separation
C.Connection
D.Jumble
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'juncture'?
A.Talking about the weather
B.Discussing a recipe for spaghetti
C.Describing a critical moment in a project meeting
D.Sharing a joke with a friend
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