pivotal

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈpɪv.ə.t̬əl/
• American: PIV-uh-tul

Origin

From Latin "pivot" (a pin or shaft on which something turns) + "-al" suffix, first used in the late 16th century.

Meanings

1. Of crucial importance

   • Being of vital or critical importance
   • Essential for the development or success of something

2. Serving as a pivot or turning point

   • Acting as the central or crucial point
   • Relating to or functioning as a pivot

Example Sentences

1. "The Civil War was a pivotal moment in American history."
2. "Her decision to study abroad proved to be a pivotal point in her career."
3. "The quarterback played a pivotal role in the team's victory."
4. "This is a pivotal meeting that will determine the company's future."

Related Words

• Forms:

  • Noun: pivot
  • Verb: pivot (to turn or rotate)
  • Adverb: pivotally

• Synonyms:

  • crucial
  • critical
  • vital
  • essential
  • decisive
  • key

Memory Tricks

1. Think of a "pivot" as a point around which everything turns - a pivotal moment is one that causes everything to turn or change direction.

2. Remember the phrase: "As a pivot pin is central to a door's movement, a pivotal decision is central to life's direction."

3. Visualize a seesaw's pivot point - just as it's crucial for the seesaw to work, something pivotal is crucial for success.