Words / B2

KROOSHL/ˈkruːʃl/

Crucial means extremely important because the outcome depends on it. Important is general; essential means you cannot do without it; crucial stresses a turning point (a crucial moment / decision / factor), with crucial to / for success. It is a strong word — overusing it weakens it — and it is common in exams, sport, and reports.

Meaning

Extremely important because everything depends on it.

Examples

• “Sleep is crucial before an exam.”
• “Timing was crucial to the experiment.”
• “The next two weeks will be crucial for the team.”

Good to know

crucial to / for. Stronger than important; like a turning point. Noun: a crucial factor.

Near in meaning

vital

New