all-important

adjective

all-im·​por·​tant ˌȯl-im-ˈpȯr-tᵊnt 

-tənt

: of very great or greatest importance

an all-important question

Synonyms of all-important

• essential
• necessary
• integral
• required
• needed
• needful
• vital
• critical
• crucial

Examples of all-important in a Sentence

that all-important item for a successful birthday party: a fancily decorated cake with candles

Recent Examples on the Web

Knowledge of the bottom contours of your lake is all-important. — Jack G. Mell, Outdoor Life, 2 July 2026

Without contrast between old and new objects, the space lacks the all-important layers that give a home character. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 20 June 2026

It’s been about a month into the all-important summer box office season, and already, there is a noticeable boost in optimism. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026

The third-place playoff is on July 18, and the all-important final is on July 19. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1748, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for all-important

• unimportant
• important

Kids Definition

all-important

adjective

all-im·​por·​tant

ˌȯ-lim-ˈpȯrt-ᵊnt, 

-ənt

: of very great importance

an all-important question