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Pivotal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pivotal

[ˈpɪv.ə.təl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

important

Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.

Synonyms

critical, crucial, essential, vital.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pivotal

Use this when referring to something that plays a central or key role in a situation or development. It implies a point or moment on which subsequent events depend.

  • The invention of the internet was a pivotal moment in modern history.
  • Her decision to invest in the tech company proved to be pivotal for her career.
crucial

Applicable when indicating something of the utmost importance, especially when the outcome depends heavily on that factor. It is often used in more formal contexts.

  • It's crucial that we meet this deadline.
  • Understanding customer needs is crucial for any business.
critical

Appropriate when describing something that is extremely important and necessary for the success or failure of a situation. It often suggests urgency or a situation at a dangerous turning point.

  • After the accident, she was in critical condition at the hospital.
  • His feedback is critical to the success of this project.
essential

Best used to describe something that is absolutely necessary or fundamental. It often refers to something indispensable.

  • Water is essential for human survival.
  • It is essential to follow the safety guidelines.
vital

This word is best suited when referring to something that is urgently important and necessary for the continued existence or success of something. It often relates to life or fundamental functioning.

  • Vitamin D is vital for bone health.
  • It is vital that we address climate change immediately.

Examples of usage

  • This discovery was pivotal to the development of new technology.
  • His role was pivotal in the success of the project.
Context #2 | Noun

turning point

A point at which a situation changes in a significant way.

Synonyms

crucial moment, decisive moment, turning point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pivotal

Use when referring to a key element or moment that creates a significant impact or change.

  • The discovery of penicillin was a pivotal moment in medical history.
  • Her decision to move abroad proved to be pivotal in her career.
turning point

Use when describing a moment when a significant change occurs, leading to a different direction or development.

  • The invention of the internet was a turning point in human communication.
  • The victory at the Battle of Saratoga was a turning point in the American Revolution.
crucial moment

Use when highlighting a particularly critical or essential point in time where important decisions or actions are needed.

  • This is a crucial moment for our project; we need to get everything right.
  • The speech was delivered at a crucial moment in the campaign.
decisive moment

Use when focusing on a specific point in time where a clear decision or action leads to a conclusive outcome.

  • The meeting marked the decisive moment in the merger negotiations.
  • His goal in the final minute was the decisive moment of the match.

Examples of usage

  • The court case marked a pivotal in the investigation.
  • The meeting was a pivotal in the decision-making process.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The pivotal 1776 Declaration of Independence marked a significant turning point in American history.
  • In World War II, D-Day was a pivotal moment that changed the course of the conflict, allowing the Allies to gain a foothold in Europe.

Science

  • In physics, a pivotal rotation refers to the turning effect around an axis, crucial for understanding motion and balance.
  • Research in genetics identifies pivotal genes that can drastically influence an organism's traits.

Business

  • Companies often face pivotal moments during business cycles, which can determine their future success or failure.
  • Decisions like mergers or product launches are seen as pivotal events that can redefine a company's trajectory.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a pivotal plot twist can change a character’s fate, reshaping the narrative’s direction.
  • Classic literature often involves pivotal moments of realization or choice for the protagonist, leading to growth or downfall.

Origin of 'pivotal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pivotalis', meaning 'of a pivot', which relates to a central point or shaft.
  • It’s been used in English since the late 19th century to describe turning points in discussions and decisions.

The word 'pivotal' originated from the Latin word 'pivotare', which means 'to balance'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century. Since then, 'pivotal' has been used to describe something of crucial importance or a turning point in various contexts.

See also: pivot.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,424, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.