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

Patience may prove the all-important virtue that sees De Zerbi land Savinho and Gakpo, after which Spurs’ attack will be far more convincing. — Elias Burke, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026

Out of desperation, Ron seeks vengeance against Tecca, the company that made the all-important chair. — Barry Levitt, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026

Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando, says what makes Magical Dining so special is its three-part recipe, melding support for local businesses, wonderful experiences for the guests and the all-important charity element. — Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2026

Economists will get another read on the labor market tomorrow morning with the release of July's all-important jobs report. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 6 Aug. 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