pivotal

adjective

piv·​ot·​al ˈpi-və-tᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or constituting a pivot

2

: vitally important : critical

pivotally

ˈpi-və-tᵊl-ē 

adverb

Synonyms of pivotal

• crucial
• key
• critical
• vital

Examples of pivotal in a Sentence

She is at a pivotal point in her career.

the report was missing a pivotal piece of information

Recent Examples on the Web

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 28 Mar. 2026

Now, Clark was out right before the season, right before these pivotal CBA talks began. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 28 Mar. 2026

The Supreme Court heard arguments in a pair of pivotal cases involving LGBT issues at school earlier this year, with the two cases about laws limiting women’s sports to biological women. —Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 28 Mar. 2026

Martinez said mental health care is pivotal to reaching the people who need it most. —Zach Boetto, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

pivotal

adjective

piv·​ot·​al ˈpiv-ət-ᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or functioning as a pivot

2

: extremely important : critical

a pivotal discovery

pivotally

-ᵊl-ē 

adverb