1.
turnaround point; halfway point; midway mark
The point at which one turns around and heads back, either literally (in a race or journey) or figuratively (the midpoint of a project, period, or process).
マラソンの折り返し地点に着いた。
I reached the turnaround point of the marathon.
プロジェクトはようやく折り返し地点を過ぎた。
The project has finally passed the halfway point.
折り返し地点で給水所が設けられていた。
A hydration station was set up at the turnaround point.
Compound of 折り返し (turning back) + 地点 (point/location). The literal meaning is the point where you turn around and head back.
LITERAL USE:
Most commonly used in marathons and running races with out-and-back courses. Also applies to any journey or route with a turnaround point.
FIGURATIVE USE:
Widely used for the midpoint of a process, project, or time period:
- 人生の折り返し地点: the midpoint of life
- プロジェクトの折り返し地点: the halfway mark of a project
- 今年も折り返し地点だ: we're already halfway through the year
RELATED:
- 折り返し: turnaround; also means "by return" (as in calling back)
- 中間地点: midpoint (more neutral, less vivid)