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Synonym Chooser

How is the word vital different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of vital are cardinal, essential, and fundamental. While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation.

cut off from vital supplies

When might cardinal be a better fit than vital?

In some situations, the words cardinal and vital are roughly equivalent. However, cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends.

a cardinal rule in buying a home

When can essential be used instead of vital?

While the synonyms essential and vital are close in meaning, essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character.

conflict is essential in drama

Where would fundamental be a reasonable alternative to vital?

While in some cases nearly identical to vital, fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse.

fundamental principles of algebra

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 vital Because the Planchón-Peteroa volcanic complex is remote, rugged and spans two countries, satellite imagery plays a vital role in monitoring volcanic activity, ash dispersal and potential impacts on air pollution, local communities and the environment. Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 10 Nov. 2025 Available in a 3-layer and 2-layer construction, both deliver exceptional waterproof and windproof performance with breathability levels exceeding 20,000 g/m²/24h, which is vital for endurance in extreme alpine conditions. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 10 Nov. 2025 But tensions have eased, with China recently pausing export controls on vital minerals and the US reducing tariffs. Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025 The main goal for the researchers was to innovate, creating these vital materials from sustainable, green sources using processes that generate minimal waste and risk. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for vital
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vital
Adjective
  • Raja’s energetic narration is relentlessly funny, even (or especially) when it’s turned to dark or disturbing events from his past.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 10 Nov. 2025
  • But Isaacman has also garnered broad support within the commercial space industry, where he’s perceived as an energetic outsider ready to usher NASA into a new era.
    Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Highly active world Enceladus is a highly active world, with a global, salty sub-surface ocean, believed to be the source of its heat.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 10 Nov. 2025
  • During inquiries, the ICO found 178 active email accounts using passwords identical or similar to those set by the organization’s IT desk when the account was activated.
    Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • These measures arise as essential staff—particularly air traffic controllers—have been working without paychecks.
    Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Vitamin D receptor genes play an essential role in calcium absorption.
    Trang Tran, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • He’s sent to the deadly planet Genna, where every flora and fauna has evolved to be as lethal as possible, and given the seemingly impossible task of killing a fierce creature known as the Kalisk.
    Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 7 Nov. 2025
  • How Nashville police got involved Nashville Police Chief John Drake said the department's specialized investigation unit saw a rise in violent crime two years ago, including non-lethal shootings and homicides connected to the MS-13 gang.
    Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Published in Aerospace Science and Technology, the study describes that the Accurate prediction of aerodynamic drag characteristics across a wide range of wing-body configurations is crucial in the early design stages of transonic commercial transport aircraft.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2025
  • On Wednesday, investigators recovered the plane’s black boxes — the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder — which could hold crucial information about what led to the disaster.
    Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • After spraying just one time, the standout aspect of this product was without a doubt its distinct, refreshing smell.
    Caché McClay, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • With its welcoming small-town charm, strong sense of community, and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada, the destination is wine country with a refreshing twist.
    Essence, Essence, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Strong geomagnetic storms can also spark bright, dynamic auroras, sometimes much farther into mid-latitudes than normal.
    Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Attendees experienced a dynamic mix of panel discussions, live performances, workshops, and industry mixers, all culminating in the Touring Awards Ceremony.
    Evan Burke, Billboard, 6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • My appetite for more Lee is low, but Harjo’s Tulsa — cynical and lively at the same time — simmers with more to say.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Lomax not only wrote the song but also stars in the commercial, which portrays him enjoying the Biggie Bag combo meal, a scene that turns into a lively celebration of music and food.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Vital.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vital. Accessed 13 Nov. 2025.

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