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noun

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an essential role
a necessary role
a crucial role
an imperative role
a vital role
an integral role
essential information
critical information
fundamental information
useful information
primary information
precious information
an essential element
a key element
a requisite element
a major element
a main element
an important element

Synonym Chooser

How is the word essential different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of essential are cardinal, fundamental, and vital. While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character.

conflict is essential in drama

When could cardinal be used to replace essential?

While in some cases nearly identical to essential, cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends.

a cardinal rule in buying a home

When is fundamental a more appropriate choice than essential?

While the synonyms fundamental and essential are close in meaning, fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse.

fundamental principles of algebra

When would vital be a good substitute for essential?

The words vital and essential are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation.

cut off from vital supplies

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of essential
Adjective
These skills are essential for everyday tasks like making plans, solving problems and adapting to new situations, according to Cleveland Clinic. Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025 Research suggests proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy, brain function, and overall health. Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 14 July 2025
Noun
Even with just the essentials, the weight adds up pretty fast. Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 12 July 2025 Pair them with your favorite casual outfit for hands-free access to all of your essentials on-the-go. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for essential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for essential
Adjective
  • The data needs to be accessible and running in sync across necessary components within the system, not operating in a silo.
    Lori Schafer, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Successful entrepreneurs focus on their core strengths and stay centered, adjusting only when necessary (or when metaphorically getting kicked in the ribs).
    JJ Rosen, The Tennessean, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • In many of these places, girls are 25 percent less likely than boys to access the knowledge needed for basic digital tasks.
    Cynthia Tully, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • While officials cash in, residents are still waiting for basic lighting and infrastructure.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • The future, entailing advanced AI, shall become an integral part of their world.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025
  • These resources have been an integral part of plans to build permanent moon bases, which have been brewing for years.
    Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 17 July 2025
Noun
  • Healthcare is among the best in South America, especially in the larger cities, and far cheaper than in the U.S., but private insurance is a must.
    William P. Barrett, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
  • Boat rides on Lake Como are a must, and Zucchi recommends always traveling with a scarf because things can get choppy and windy.
    Michelle Tchea, Travel + Leisure, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • The 31-year-old is a true holding midfielder, offering assurance in playing out from the back and moving the ball through the thirds at the required tempo.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 10 July 2025
  • But he still has not been confirmed by the Senate, a required step to take on the role permanently (typically, U.S. attorneys serve through a president's time in office).
    Lucas Aulbach, The Courier-Journal, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Few technologies, and certainly few so rudimentary in design and execution, have done more for the betterment of the world than shipping containers.
    Tony Morley, National Review, 25 July 2025
  • This is the most simple kind of AI agent that basically provides a rudimentary function.
    John Werner, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • Unfortunately, this scenario represents a national obsession that has no inherent benefits but also portends deep regret for millions.
    Scott Liftman, Boston Herald, 25 July 2025
  • The sport of off-roading suffers from a fundamental discordance: The desire to get out into nature and the irreparable harm inherent in the process of off-roading.
    Tim Stevens, ArsTechnica, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • In 2024, the Biden administration proposed expanding parole in place to undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens who met certain requirements, such as having lived in the country for a minimum number of years.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 19 July 2025
  • Remember that there are lots of different Forms 1099 and many different reporting requirements.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Essential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/essential. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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