Definition of crucialnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective crucial contrast with its synonyms?

The words acute and critical are common synonyms of crucial. While all three words mean "of uncertain outcome," crucial suggests a dividing of the ways and often a test or trial involving the determination of a future course or direction.

a crucial vote

Where would acute be a reasonable alternative to crucial?

While the synonyms acute and crucial are close in meaning, acute stresses intensification of conditions leading to a culmination or breaking point.

an acute housing shortage

How are the words critical and acute related as synonyms of crucial?

Critical adds to acute implications of imminent change, of attendant suspense, and of decisiveness in the outcome.

the war has entered a critical phase

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of crucial Poland continues to play a crucial role in Ukraine's defense. Aidan Stretch, CBS News, 25 June 2026 These stories emphasize that skill, belief, and groundwork are crucial for seizing opportunities, proving that true breakthroughs are built on long-term preparation. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Although most states have passed laws mandating the inclusion of phonics in early literacy instruction, few have comprehensively addressed the crucial role which knowledge plays in mature literacy. Thibaut Delloue, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 June 2026 The film’s title comes into play here in a crucial way. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for crucial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crucial
Adjective
  • Rankings were also further broken down based on each key scoring components.
    Finch Walker, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • However, following a series of Miami Herald articles detailing flaws in the investigation, including police not following up with key eyewitnesses, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office reexamined the case and charged Pino with felony vessel homicide in October 2024.
    Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Everyday businesses most at risk To counter the threat, businesses and leaders should invest in cyber defenses, upgrade old systems or patch faulty software, and limit who has access to critical systems, the Five Eyes leaders said.
    Helen Regan, CNN Money, 23 June 2026
  • Commercial vessels and oil tankers preparing to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical strategic waterways for global trade flows, maintain their wait in the Gulf of Oman, on June 17, 2026.
    Justina Lee, CNBC, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Ultimately, healthcare faces crucial decisions regarding computing power, which is becoming as vital as electricity for modern medicine.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026
  • Gina Martinez, chair of the executive board of the Wilmington Neighborhood Council, said the land in question provides a vital buffer between port activity and residential communities.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Crucial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crucial. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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