Synonyms of crucial

crucial

adjective

ˈkrü-shəl 

as in key

of the greatest possible importance

water is crucial to our survival

Synonyms & Similar Words

• key
• critical
• vital
• pivotal
• essential
• fundamental
• necessary
• basic
• decisive
• elementary
• life-or-death
• instrumental
• life-and-death
• urgent
• requisite
• indispensable
• pressing
• weighty

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• minor
• unimportant
• insignificant
• trivial
• inconsequential

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective crucial contrast with its synonyms?

The words acute and critical are common synonyms of crucial. While all three words mean "of uncertain outcome," crucial suggests a dividing of the ways and often a test or trial involving the determination of a future course or direction.

a crucial vote

Where would acute be a reasonable alternative to crucial?

While the synonyms acute and crucial are close in meaning, acute stresses intensification of conditions leading to a culmination or breaking point.

an acute housing shortage

How are the words critical and acute related as synonyms of crucial?

Critical adds to acute implications of imminent change, of attendant suspense, and of decisiveness in the outcome.

the war has entered a critical phase

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of crucial

But getting rid of the gunk that can clog your dishwasher filters, sprayers, and drains is crucial to getting the most dish-cleaning power from your machine. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2025

Trump’s tariffs, detentions take a toll on local tourism Now manufacturing accounts for more than one-fifth of Vietnam’s GDP and will be a crucial driver in hitting the government’s 8% target rate for 2025. —Stephanie Yang, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2025

The idea is that more interim housing, which can be constructed faster and cheaper compared to a permanent housing unit, would provide a crucial stepping stone to Californians living in tents or sleeping on sidewalks. —Luke Harold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2025

The Key To Talking About Tariffs is Transparency During any business disruption or crisis, transparent communication is crucial for maintaining customer trust. —Dan Gingiss, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025