WordValeclimax
the point of highest tension in a story
In more detail
1. (noun) the most intense, exciting, or important part of something
2. (noun) the highest point or peak of something
3. (verb) to reach the most intense or important point
Examples
- The climax of the movie happens when the hero finally confronts the villain.
- The story builds to its climax in the final chapter.
- The tension climaxes when the two characters finally meet.
How to use climax
Climax refers to the highest point of intensity or importance in a narrative, experience, or process. It is used broadly across formal and informal contexts to describe the peak moment of tension, excitement, or development, whether in stories, events, or sexual contexts. The term carries no inherently negative connotation and is standard in literary and entertainment discussions.
Common phrases
- reach a climax
- sexual climax
- dramatic climax
- building to a climax
- the climax of the film
Synonyms
peak · culmination · crescendo · apex · pinnacle
Opposites
nadir · anticlimx · beginning
Word family
climactic (adjective) · climacteric (adjective/noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse climax with anticlimactic (a disappointing ending that fails to match expectations). Note that climactic refers to the climax itself, while climatic refers to climate.
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