Synonyms for

Vital

Adjective / ˈvaɪtʌl / Another word for vital — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

necessary or essential to life

Synonyms & similar words

critical lively crucial important necessary indispensable critical key essential fundamental pivotal vitality life-sustaining paramount significant requisite valuable meaningful relevant material substantial weighty

Synonyms by register

Formal

essential crucial indispensable paramount

Informal

key major big important

Literary

lifeblood quintessential

Antonyms

unimportant insignificant trivial minor secondary nonessential

Common collocations

  • vital signs
  • vital importance
  • vital role
  • vital organ
  • vital statistics
  • vital energy
  • vital part

Word family

noun vitality
adjective vital
adverb vitally

Usage note

Often used to describe things that are absolutely necessary for life or success. Can also refer to energy or liveliness.

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Example sentences

  1. It is vital to wear a helmet while riding a bike.
  2. Sleep is vital for a healthy body and mind.
  3. Water is vital for plants to grow.
  4. The heart is a vital organ in the body.
  5. Good communication is vital in any relationship.

Quotes

  • The vitality of thought is in adventure. Ideas won't keep. Something must be done about them. - Alfred North Whitehead
  • The vitality of a new movement in Art must be gauged by the fury it arouses. - Logan Pearsall Smith
  • The vitality of a nation is in its archives. - Linda Chavez

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