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crucial
/ˈkɹuː.ʃəl/
Crucial is a strong word. Use it when something is not just 'important,' but so important that the outcome depends on it. It is often followed by the words 'to' or 'for'. For example, you can say something is "crucial to success" or "crucial for the process." While it is common in both speaking and writing, it sounds more professional and serious than using words like 'vital' or 'key'.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is frantically texting from a boardroom during a presentation.
David Smith
Brian, the slides aren't loading. Getting this fixed right now is crucial.
Brian
Did you restart it or are you just winging it?
💡
David uses 'crucial' to express the high stakes of his failing presentation. Brian responds with his trademark grumpiness, using the phrasal verb 'winging it' (meaning to improvise without preparation) to mock David's lack of technical readiness.