the crux
noun
: the most important part of something (such as a problem, issue, puzzle, etc.)
—usually + of
The crux of the matter is that people are afraid of change.
It's taken a while to get to the crux of the problem, but I think I finally understand it.
Examples of the crux in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
And this is the crux of a more measured, journalistic approach.
—
Brendan O’Meara 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025
As the oldest form of art, storytelling has existed since the very beginning of time across culture, and at the crux of many creative disciplines.
—Nia Shumake, Essence, 12 June 2025
That was the crux of the latest Gmail attack, tricking users into sharing codes.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
The instant, ardent determination with which Anna devours Joseph’s letters and begins her affair with Oliver is the crux both of the story and of its form.
—Richard Brody, New Yorker, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for the crux
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Brendan O’Meara 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025
As the oldest form of art, storytelling has existed since the very beginning of time across culture, and at the crux of many creative disciplines.
—Nia Shumake, Essence, 12 June 2025
That was the crux of the latest Gmail attack, tricking users into sharing codes.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
The instant, ardent determination with which Anna devours Joseph’s letters and begins her affair with Oliver is the crux both of the story and of its form.
—Richard Brody, New Yorker, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for the crux
Cite this Entry
“The crux.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20crux. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
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