The point of no return

noun

A time or place at which you must continue with the current direction or plan because turning back is dangerous or impossible.

Once you have begun the operation, you will have passed the point of no return.
Visual representation of "the point of no return" - A time or place at which you must continue with the current direction or plan because turning back is dangerous or impossible

Often appears as...

  • past the point of no return
  • reach the point of no return
noun

In aviation, a specified point on a flight path of an aircraft beyond which the remaining fuel is insufficient to return to the starting point.

The pilot relayed to the control tower that they've reached the point of no return.
Visual representation of "the point of no return" - In aviation, a specified point on a flight path of an aircraft beyond which the remaining fuel is insufficient to return to the starting point

Often appears as...

  • fuel point of no return
  • calculate the point of no return

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

noun

A time or place at which you must continue with the current direction or plan because turning back is dangerous or impossible.

Once you have begun the operation, you will have passed the point of no return.
Visual representation of "the point of no return" - A time or place at which you must continue with the current direction or plan because turning back is dangerous or impossible

Often appears as...

  • past the point of no return
  • reach the point of no return
noun

In aviation, a specified point on a flight path of an aircraft beyond which the remaining fuel is insufficient to return to the starting point.

The pilot relayed to the control tower that they've reached the point of no return.
Visual representation of "the point of no return" - In aviation, a specified point on a flight path of an aircraft beyond which the remaining fuel is insufficient to return to the starting point

Often appears as...

  • fuel point of no return
  • calculate the point of no return

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "the point of no return"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Often used metaphorically to express a critical decision point after which there is no turning back.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
He knew that marrying her was the point of no return in his life.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Tipping Point

Can imply a tipping point where the situation will significantly change and you must commit.

Illustration for Tipping Point
The campaign had reached the point of no return, they had to see it through.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Dramatic Situations

This phrase adds drama, often hinting at high stakes or irreversible consequences.

Illustration for Dramatic Situations
This was it, the point of no return, the heist was about to start.
Visual representation of the word "The point of no return"

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