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 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 See All Example Sentences for crucial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crucial
Adjective
  • This groundbreaking marks a key milestone in validating our power curve and achieving essential cost efficiencies for wind energy.
    Loz Blain June 30, New Atlas, 30 June 2025
  • The key measure of Wall Street’s health fell nearly 20% from Feb. 19 through April 8.
    Elaine Kurtenbach, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Similarly, the United States wants to restrict China from acquiring certain kinds of advanced technology, such as tools and components critical to manufacturing semiconductors.
    KORI SCHAKE, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025
  • Magnesium is a mineral needed to regulate blood pressure, nerve function, and many other critical body processes.
    Jillian Kubala, Health, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • Ukraine is completely out of ammunition for its two vital missile defense SAMP/T batteries, the Franco-Italian version of the U.S. Patriot missile defense system, according to sources speaking with Le Monde late last month.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 29 June 2025
  • His size and ability to elevate over defenders are vital to his penchant for converting on shots others wouldn't dare take.
    Bobby Krivitsky, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025
Adjective
  • These three organizations were pivotal to Hurricane Helene relief efforts and continue to help the community rebuild.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 24 June 2025
  • The images of the attack were pivotal to Erin Smith's efforts to change the designation of her husband's death.
    CBS News, CBS News, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crucial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crucial. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

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