Vital part Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vital part

[ˈvaɪtl pɑːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

important role

A vital part refers to a crucial component or element that is essential for the functioning or success of a system, process, or organization. It is something without which the whole entity would suffer or fail.

Synonyms

crucial, essential, fundamental, integral.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vital part

Used to describe something that is absolutely necessary for the functioning of a system or process. Often used in medical, biological, or engineering contexts.

  • The heart is a vital part of the human body
  • Trust is a vital part of any relationship
essential

Used to describe something that is absolutely necessary or indispensable in a particular context. Often used in broader general contexts.

  • Water is essential for all living organisms
  • It is essential to arrive on time for the interview
crucial

Used when something is extremely important and decisive for the success or failure of a situation. It often implies a critical point or turning point.

  • Making the right decision at this stage is crucial
  • Her role in the project was crucial for its success
integral

Refers to something that is necessary to make a whole complete. Often suggests that without it, the whole would not function correctly or be incomplete.

  • Teamwork is an integral part of the company's culture
  • Proper maintenance is integral to the machine's performance
fundamental

Refers to something that forms the foundation or base of a system, principle, or concept. It implies the basic, underlying factors that support everything else.

  • Freedom of speech is a fundamental right
  • Understanding basic math is fundamental to learning advanced sciences

Examples of usage

  • It is a vital part of the ecosystem to maintain a balance between predator and prey.
  • Good communication is a vital part of any healthy relationship.
  • The engine is a vital part of the car, without it, the vehicle cannot run.
Context #2 | Noun

body

In the context of the body, a vital part refers to an organ or system that is necessary for sustaining life. These parts are critical for survival and overall health.

Synonyms

critical, crucial, essential, indispensable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vital part

Describes something that is fundamentally necessary for the function or success of a system, often used in operational or anatomical contexts.

  • Without the heart, which is a vital part of the human body, life cannot be sustained
essential

Indicates that something is absolutely necessary for a process or system to function, often used to underscore the fundamental importance of a component or element.

  • Water is essential for human survival
crucial

Highlights the decisive or pivotal importance of something, suggesting that its absence or failure could affect the overall outcome.

  • It's crucial to study for the final exam in order to pass the course
critical

Emphasizes the urgency or high importance of a situation or component, often implying that failure or inaction could lead to serious consequences.

  • It's critical that we meet the deadline, or the entire project will fall apart
indispensable

Conveys that something is so important that it cannot be done without, often implying that replacing it would be nearly impossible.

  • A good teacher is indispensable for a quality education

Examples of usage

  • The heart is a vital part of the human body, pumping blood to all organs.
  • The lungs are vital parts for breathing and oxygenating the blood.
  • The brain is a vital part, controlling all bodily functions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, a vital part can refer to essential organs, like the brain or lungs, crucial for sustaining life.
  • In ecosystems, vital parts can be species that play critical roles, like bees for pollination, ensuring plant reproduction.

Psychology

  • In mental health, vital parts of a supportive environment include relationships and safe spaces, critical for well-being.
  • Self-care routines are considered vital parts in maintaining mental health, allowing individuals to recharge and cope better.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a vital part can be a key character whose decisions shape the outcome of the story, like a hero's journey.
  • Themes in literature often highlight vital parts of human experience, such as love, loss, and identity.

Technology

  • In computer systems, vital parts refer to core components like processors and memory, necessary for the device to function.
  • In software development, a vital part is a crucial piece of code that enables the main functions of an application.

Origin of 'vital part'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'vital' comes from the Latin 'vita' meaning 'life', emphasizing its importance to existence.
  • In the late Middle Ages, 'vital' was often used to describe essential nutrients or organs needed for health.

The word 'vital' originated from the Latin word 'vitalis', meaning 'of or belonging to life'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. 'Part' has Old English and Latin origins, referring to a portion or piece. Together, 'vital part' emphasizes the essential nature of a component for life or function.