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Cusp: meaning, definitions and examples

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cusp

 

[kʌsp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

finance

A point of transition between two different states or conditions, especially an abrupt or significant one.

Synonyms

boundary, point, transition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Best used when describing a point of transition or a moment of change, especially in a metaphorical sense.

  • We are on the cusp of a technological revolution.
  • The country was on the cusp of war.
point

Used for specifying a precise moment or location in time or space.

  • She reached the highest point of the mountain.
  • At this point in the meeting, we should discuss our budget.
transition

Describes the process or period of changing from one state or condition to another.

  • The transition from childhood to adulthood can be challenging.
  • The company is in a period of transition.
boundary

Typically used to describe physical or metaphorical dividing lines or limits.

  • The farm is marked by natural boundaries like rivers and mountains.
  • There are boundaries in our friendship that shouldn't be crossed.

Examples of usage

  • The stock market seems to be at a cusp right now, with investors unsure of which way it will go.
  • She stood at the cusp of a new chapter in her life, filled with excitement and uncertainty.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

A pointed end where two curves meet, in particular the point on the crown of a tooth where the enamel becomes dentin.

Synonyms

edge, point, tip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Used to indicate a critical point or a turning point where something is about to change.

  • She was on the cusp of a major breakthrough in her research
  • They stood on the cusp of a new era
point

Indicates an exact location, precise moment, or a sharp end of an object.

  • At this point, we need to make a decision
  • The pencil had a very sharp point
  • She made a compelling point in the debate
tip

Refers to the extreme end of a long, thin object. It can also imply giving advice or a small amount of extra money for service.

  • The tip of the knife was very sharp
  • Here are some cooking tips for beginners
  • She left a generous tip for the waiter
edge

Refers to the outer limit or boundary of an object, area, or surface. It can also mean being in a tense or just-about-to-change situation.

  • The cat carefully walked along the edge of the roof
  • He was on the edge of his seat during the entire movie
  • They were on the edge of despair

Examples of usage

  • The dentist pointed out the cusp on the X-ray, indicating where the cavity had formed.
  • The cusp of the tooth was chipped, causing some discomfort for the patient.
Context #3 | Noun

astrology

A point in the horoscope where a planet is in a particularly significant position, especially as it relates to another planet or an important angle in the chart.

Synonyms

intersection, junction, meeting point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Used in a scientific or mathematical context to describe a point where two curves meet, without crossing, or a significant point of transition or change. It is often employed metaphorically to indicate a pivotal moment in time.

  • We are on the cusp of a major technological breakthrough.
  • The graph shows a cusp where the two lines almost touch.
intersection

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a point where two or more roads cross each other. In a broader context, it can also refer to the point where different ideas, cultures, or dimensions meet.

  • Turn left at the next intersection.
  • The intersection of science and art can lead to innovative solutions.
junction

Primarily used in transportation to describe a place where roads or railways meet or split. It can also be used metaphorically to signify a critical decision point or a converging area.

  • The train will stop at the next junction.
  • We are at a junction in our project where big decisions must be made.
meeting point

Used informally to describe a specific place where people agree to gather. It emphasizes the aspect of coming together rather than the physical properties of the location.

  • We agreed on the café as our meeting point.
  • The park serves as a common meeting point for local groups.

Examples of usage

  • The astrologer noted that Jupiter was on the cusp of the seventh house, indicating a time of partnership and collaboration.
  • People born on the cusp between two zodiac signs often exhibit characteristics of both.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • This term comes from the Latin word 'cuspis', meaning 'point' or 'sharp end'.
  • The usage of 'cusp' to describe a transitional state dates back to the early 19th century.
  • In mathematics, a cusp refers to a pointed end of a curve.

Science

  • In astronomy, the term is often used to describe the phase in the moon cycle when it transitions from new to full or vice versa.
  • In biology, a cusp is a pointed or rounded projection found on the surface of teeth, helping with the chewing process.
  • Cusp can refer to specific stages in the life cycle of organisms, marking changes in behavior or development.

Psychology

  • In psychological contexts, individuals may experience a 'cusp' when facing significant life changes, such as moving from childhood to adulthood.
  • The concept of a cusp can illustrate the tension between two opposing states or feelings, like confidence and doubt.
  • This term is used in personality tests to describe transitional stages of character traits in people.

Mathematics

  • In calculus, a cusp appears at points of non-differentiability, where the curve changes direction sharply.
  • A cubic curve can have multiple cusps, demonstrating interesting characteristics in polynomial functions.
  • The classification of singular points in algebraic geometry includes cusps, providing insight into complex shapes.

Cultural References

  • The term is often used in astrology to describe people born on the border between two zodiac signs, suggesting traits from both.
  • In literature, characters at a cusp often face pivotal decisions, emphasizing themes of growth and transformation.
  • The musical term 'cusp' can denote a moment of tension before a resolution in melodies.

Translations

Translations of the word "cusp" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cúspide

🇮🇳 शिखर

🇩🇪 Spitze

🇮🇩 puncak

🇺🇦 пік

🇵🇱 szczyt

🇯🇵 頂点

🇫🇷 sommet

🇪🇸 cúspide

🇹🇷 zirve

🇰🇷 절정

🇸🇦 ذروة

🇨🇿 vrchol

🇸🇰 vrchol

🇨🇳 顶点

🇸🇮 vrh

🇮🇸 toppur

🇰🇿 шырғы

🇬🇪 მწვერვალი

🇦🇿 zirvə

🇲🇽 cúspide

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,921, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.