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 Infantino, for his part, maintains the new tournament will be crucial to broaden soccer’s appeal in the USA and will serve as a dress rehearsal ahead of next year’s World Cup. Dan Cancian, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025 The music itself is a bit more substantive, if only because hip-hop fans understand how crucial Rick is to the evolution of the culture. Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 13 June 2025 This is because proteins play several crucial roles in the body, including providing energy, helping the brain and immune system function, and serving as building blocks for muscle, bone, skin, hair, and nails. Jonathan Purtell, Verywell Health, 13 June 2025 Assessing a model’s performance has become crucial for businesses to trust and ultimately adopt AI, Ratner said. Rashi Shrivastava, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for crucial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crucial
Adjective
  • But thanks to key defensive plays by Panthers like Gustav Forsling and Eetu Luostarinen, Florida kept Edmonton from evening the game until the final moment.
    Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 7 June 2025
  • The Biden administration noted the rise in used vehicle pricing was a key contribution to inflation during that time.
    Michael Wayland, CNBC, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • That’s a detail that could prove critical to Overture’s feasibility for overland travel.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 12 June 2025
  • Current Treatment Options for Rosacea for Women in Midlife Because rosacea can worsen or change in midlife, dermatologists often recommend a tailored approach that takes into account both hormonal changes and skin sensitivity, making midlife a critical time to seek diagnosis and treatment.
    Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 12 June 2025
Adjective
  • And in Game 5, the Thunder’s second consecutive NBA Finals win with Hartenstein back in the starting lineup, his decision-making — especially in the first half — proved vital in creating enough separation against a pesky, persistent Indiana Pacers team.
    Kelly Iko, New York Times, 17 June 2025
  • Medicaid is a vital safety net that allows older and disabled Floridians to live with dignity.
    Liz Barton, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • At a venue like Winged Foot, similar length proved pivotal in Bryson DeChambeau’s 2020 victory, an encouraging precedent for James.
    Tim Corlett, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
  • Cassidy said Kennedy also pledged to keep in place a pivotal independent advisory panel on vaccine policy.
    Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 12 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crucial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crucial. Accessed 20 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on crucial

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