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
  • The unorthodox midterm convention comes as Democrats continue to poll stronger than Republicans ahead of November's critical elections.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 1 July 2026
  • Kennard could have provided a critical floor-spacing piece around Doncic, who thrives when surrounded by lob-catching centers, athletic wings and knockdown shooters.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Brennan argues the records are vital to a potential vindictive-prosecution defense, citing more than 100 Trump statements attacking him and directives to pursue cases without legal basis.
    Eric Tucker, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
  • There are fees imposed for the use of other vital shipping lanes, including the Suez and Panama Canals, where fees can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars for the largest cargo vessels.
    Joanne Stocker, CBS News, 1 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Crucial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crucial. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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