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

If finalized, Sullivan would step into the role during a pivotal offseason for Miami, tasked with reshaping the roster and helping guide the franchise into its next phase following changes at both the general manager and head coach positions. —Sergio Candido, CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026

Video captured by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent Jonathan Ross gives a raw, up-close perspective of the pivotal moments surrounding his fatal shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis. —Holmes Lybrand, CNN Money, 9 Jan. 2026

While not putting too much emphasis on one game at this stage of the season, the outcome could prove pivotal. —Dean Spiros, Twin Cities, 9 Jan. 2026

Expect pivotal conversations, emotional turning points and stressful checkpoints. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 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