pivotal crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "pivotal crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's find that crucial word!
Solutions for "pivotal crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
KEY: Signifying supreme importance or influence, often a crucial turning point.
5 Letters
VITAL: Absolutely necessary or important; essential for success or existence.
7 Letters
CRUCIAL: Decisive or critical, especially in relation to a success, failure, or outcome.
8 Letters
CRITICAL: Having a decisive or crucial importance in the success or failure of something.
9 Letters
ESSENTIAL: Absolutely necessary or important.
More About "pivotal crossword clue"
"Pivotal" is a popular crossword clue because it evokes a sense of central importance or a turning point, allowing for a range of synonyms that fit various letter counts. Understanding the nuances of "pivotal" helps solvers identify the specific word the puzzle setter intends, whether it's a short, impactful word like KEY, or a longer, descriptive term like ESSENTIAL.
The term originates from "pivot," the central point around which something turns or rotates. This inherent meaning of being central or foundational is why words like CRUCIAL or VITAL are frequently correct answers. When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle, especially any intersecting letters, to narrow down the possibilities efficiently.
Mastering such clues enhances your crossword-solving skills by training your brain to think broadly about synonyms and the core meaning of words, which is essential for tackling more complex puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "pivotal," consider if the setter is looking for a synonym implying importance (e.g., VITAL, CRUCIAL) or one suggesting a turning point (e.g., KEY).
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on relevant answers.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have letters filled in from other clues, use them as anchors. This often reveals the correct answer for "pivotal" when multiple synonyms exist for a given length.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes, a "pivotal" clue might lead to an answer that describes a core component rather than a direct synonym (e.g., CENTRAL).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'pivotal' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'pivotal' typically refers to something central, crucial, or vitally important. It guides solvers to answers like KEY, VITAL, CRUCIAL, or ESSENTIAL, focusing on the core significance of a concept or event.
How can I identify a 'pivotal' answer in a crossword?
Look for clues that suggest importance, centrality, or a turning point. Words like 'crucial,' 'key,' 'decisive,' 'central,' 'critical,' or 'essential' are strong indicators. Also, consider the number of letters needed for the answer, as 'pivotal' can lead to words of various lengths.
Are there common synonyms for 'pivotal' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include KEY, VITAL, CRUCIAL, CENTRAL, CRITICAL, ESSENTIAL, and IMPORTANT. The specific answer will depend on the length requirement and any intersecting letters from other clues.