Synonyms of crucial

crucial

adjective

ˈkrü-shəl 

as in key

of the greatest possible importance

water is crucial to our survival

Synonyms & Similar Words

• key
• critical
• vital
• pivotal
• essential
• fundamental
• necessary
• basic
• decisive
• elementary
• life-or-death
• instrumental
• life-and-death
• urgent
• requisite
• indispensable
• pressing
• weighty

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• minor
• unimportant
• insignificant
• trivial
• inconsequential

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

Recent Examples of crucial

Meetings leading up to that event in Caitlin Clark’s home arena are seen as crucial, and the All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis should be much livelier off the court than in typical years. —Eric Jackson, Sportico.com, 27 June 2025

While a 5% death rate for F1 drivers seems frighteningly high, there’s a crucial caveat: a majority of the fatalities took place in the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. —Sean Gregory, Time, 27 June 2025

The company, along with other event cinema players like Fathom, Imax and Iconic Events, have been crucial in keep the box office afloat in the wake of Covid, through Hollywood strikes, and into a soft start of 2025. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 26 June 2025

This is a lasting trend that businesses cannot afford to ignore—and many companies are aware that sustainability is crucial for their survival in the long term. —Alan McClay, Sourcing Journal, 26 June 2025