kʌm tuː ə hed
Body Parts
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- For a boil or abscess to form a head before bursting
What does "come to a head" mean?
- To reach a crisis point requiring action
- To reach a point where a decision must be made
Examples
- The conflict came to a head when both sides refused to compromise.
- Things will come to a head at tomorrow's meeting.
- The issue has been simmering for months, but it finally came to a head.
Origin
Medical origin from boils and abscesses, which form a 'head' before they can be lanced and healed. The idiom describes situations that must reach a crisis before they can be resolved.
How to use it
Describes situations reaching a tipping point. Often implies that resolution—positive or negative—will follow.
Similar expressions
reach a crisis
boil over
come to a climax
Opposites
simmer down
remain unresolved
Related idioms
- keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully
- heart of gold
A very kind, generous, and caring nature
- caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong
- keep your chin up
To stay positive and not be discouraged
- wrap your head around something
To understand something complex
- all ears
Listening attentively and eagerly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "come to a head" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.