Words / C1

KULM-in-ayt/ˈkʌlmɪneɪt/

To culminate is to reach a high or final point, usually culminate in + noun: the course culminates in a presentation. End is everyday and flatter; peak is closer for a high point. Culmination is the noun, and the verb is slightly literary or journalistic. In speech, it all leads up to or it ends with is more natural — do not use it for a random last event with no build-up.

Meaning

To reach a high or final point (culminate in).

Examples

• “The course culminates in a public presentation.”
• “Talks culminated in a narrow vote, not a consensus.”
• “Years of small studies culminated in one clear guideline.”

Good to know

culminate in + noun. Final high point after a build-up. Noun: culmination. Everyday: end in / lead up to.

Near in meaning

peak

New