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

Insiders also credit chief operating officer Matt Bires (an architect of A24’s Cherry Lane Theater acquisition), global TV head Ravi Nandan (the Fielder whisperer) and the all-important chief marketer Graham Retzlik with the steady growth. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026

Calls are growing in Washington for the country’s leaders to hear the voter on the all-important topic of affordability and make adjustments. — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2026

On the day before the all-important midterms, the headquarters of Tarrant County's Republican and Democratic parties buzzed with activity to get out the vote on Election Day. — CBS News, 3 Nov. 2026

Twelve months later, the cupcake mixes have arrived on store shelves, just in time for the all-important holiday season. — Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 3 Nov. 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