In a way that is of vital importance; at a critical or decisive moment.
From Latin 'crux' (cross, a crucial point), influenced by French 'cruciel'. The word emerged in the 1600s from the idea of a 'crucial' moment being like a crossroads where different paths diverge.
The word 'crucial' literally comes from the image of a cross—a point where roads divide and your choice determines everything! In medicine and science, a 'crucial experiment' is one where results point definitively in one direction.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.