watershed
A turning point or dividing line; a critical moment marking change
Examples
In a meeting
“The merger was a watershed moment for our company's growth.”
Over coffee
“Getting my driver's license was a watershed moment in my independence.”
Why this word
turning point
watershed implies a dividing line after which everything flows in a new direction, while turning point is a general moment of change
milestone
watershed emphasizes a critical divide creating permanent directional change, while milestone is simply a significant marker or achievement
landmark
watershed stresses a defining moment that separates before from after, while landmark is any important or memorable event
Usage tip
Use when describing a significant event that marks a clear before-and-after division
Etymology
English 'water' + 'shed' (ridge of high ground dividing waters flowing to different rivers)
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Related words
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To become progressively worse over time.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement
revert
To return to a previous state or practice
proliferate
To increase rapidly in number; multiply