as in crucial
of the greatest possible importance
the report was missing a pivotal piece of information
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of pivotal
Both quarterbacks are expected to play pivotal roles in their teams' pursuit of the championship.
—
Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 9 Feb. 2025
Supermodel Veronica Webb, a pivotal individual that’s graced Hudson’s shows previously walked the runway in a cherry red silken gown that was also quite striking.
—Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 8 Feb. 2025
These decisions are pivotal, shaping the educational landscape for the year ahead.
—Dr. Michael Thomas, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
Saudi Arabia, a pivotal U.S. ally in the region and a wealthier nation, reiterated their support for a two-state solution after Trump's takeover proposal.
—Alexandra Hutzler, ABC News, 6 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for pivotal 
Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 9 Feb. 2025
Supermodel Veronica Webb, a pivotal individual that’s graced Hudson’s shows previously walked the runway in a cherry red silken gown that was also quite striking.
—Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 8 Feb. 2025
These decisions are pivotal, shaping the educational landscape for the year ahead.
—Dr. Michael Thomas, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
Saudi Arabia, a pivotal U.S. ally in the region and a wealthier nation, reiterated their support for a two-state solution after Trump's takeover proposal.
—Alexandra Hutzler, ABC News, 6 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for pivotal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pivotal
Adjective
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There is a target on the back of the Mets, as there is for every contender, and Lindor will play a crucial role in making sure the standards are upheld and the winning continues.—
Abbey Mastracco,
New York Daily News,
15 Feb. 2025
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The Department of Veterans Affairs, which provides crucial services and benefits to military veterans, laid off more than 1,000 employees on Thursday alone, with VA Secretary Doug Collins claiming that the move would save the department $98 million per year.—
Nik Popli,
TIME,
15 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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Bitcoin Bitcoin remains trapped in a range below the key psychological level of $100,000 without any new impetus from Trump.—
Medora Lee,
USA TODAY,
19 Feb. 2025
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This comes as no surprise, for they are uniquely positioned to efficiently produce beef due to their proximity to key feed ingredients and infrastructure.—
Arturo Macias Franco,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
18 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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Visiting the White Lotus’ Thailand hotel to learn new techniques and share her own, Belinda’s arc is less pitiable this season, but her purpose is arguably even more critical.—
Ben Travers,
IndieWire,
11 Feb. 2025
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Ratner makes the case that public policy is critical to public health.—
Maria Godoy,
NPR,
11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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Azerbaijan has also tried to bully and threaten its way into disingenuous peace deals with Armenia while plotting with Turkey, a key ally, in taking sovereign lands away from Armenia including the Zangezur Corridor, a vital trade route located between the two countries.—
Josh Hammer,
Newsweek,
17 Feb. 2025
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These cuts could significantly impact vital resources and programs that communities depend on.—
News Release,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
17 Feb. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near pivotal
Cite this Entry
“Pivotal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pivotal. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.
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