Cusp

Definitions

1. A sharp point or pointed end.
2. An important moment when a decision is made that will determine future events.
   figuratively
3. A point of a curve where the curve is continuous but has no derivative, but such that it has a derivative at every nearby point.
4. A point made by the intersection of two curved lines or curved structures, a common motif in Gothic architecture.
5. A boundary between zodiacal signs and houses.
6. Any of the pointed parts of a canine tooth or molar.
7. A flap of a valve of a heart or blood vessel.
8. A point of transition.

Equivalents

Examples

“Newcastle were 11 points adrift of Spurs following their 5-0 mauling at the hands of the north London club in February. But a sixth successive Premier League win⟳ puts them on the cusp of European football next season as they surged 15 points clear of seventh-placed Everton, who have⟳ five games left to play⟳.”

“I see⟳ freight returning in a big way. The 2016 reconnection of the Helwith Bridge quarries can produce⟳ up to three heavy trains a day. The nearby and much bigger Horton quarry is also on the cusp of rail reconnection.”

CEFR level