pivotal

/ˈpɪvətəl/adjective

Extremely important because other things depend on it; central to an outcome.

Example sentences

“Her testimony played a pivotal role in the trial.”
“The invention of the printing press was a pivotal moment in history.”

Comes from 'pivot', the fixed point a lever turns on. Usually sits before 'role' or 'moment', and is heavily overused in business writing.

Synonyms for pivotal

crucial
critical
key
central
decisive

Antonyms

minor
peripheral
insignificant

Related words

momentousExtremely important, with major or lasting consequences.pixelOne of the tiny individual dots that together form a digital image on a screen.piqueA brief feeling of irritation or resentment, especially when your pride has been hurt.pizzaAn Italian dish consisting of a thin round of bread dough baked with tomato sauce, cheese, and other toppings such as vegetables or meat.piousDeeply religious and devoted to worship.placateTo soothe an angry person until they calm down and stop being upset.