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

In South Africa’s northernmost province, under a cavernous expanse of jagged gray rock, lies a mineral treasure trove that could play a pivotal role in the country’s relationship with global superpowers. — Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 21 Sep. 2026

On one hand, there appears to be someone powerful on your side, but then another pivotal person in the process is being a bit challenging. — Kyle Thomas, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026

But Graham, who was seen as a pivotal swing vote in the decision, appeared to lean back in favor of the project during council’s most recent meeting. — Charlotte Observer, 20 Sep. 2026

Those points would prove pivotal in ASU holding off a furious KU comeback in the last nine minutes. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 20 Sep. 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