ESSENTIAL Synonyms: 191 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

essential 1 of 2

adjective

i-ˈsen(t)-shəl

Definition of essential next

as in necessary

impossible to do without a well-stocked public library is essential for the well-being of a community

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in basic

of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject anyone with an essential knowledge of human biology can follow the documentary

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in integral

being a part of the innermost nature of a person or thing an unquenchable belief in the essential goodness of most people

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

essential

2 of 2

noun

as in must

something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable the essentials for success include a willingness to work and the right attitude

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in principles

essentials plural general or basic truths on which other truths or theories can be based this will be just an introduction to the essentials of computer programming

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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

Examples 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

But peer support groups, like those that convened in Arlington, have proven to be an effective intervention, counselors and young people themselves say, providing an essential system of support for when a child or teen is struggling. —

Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Jan. 2025 Ford, for instance, was essential to how the Chargers defended the run this season. —

Daniel Popper, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025

Noun

The report presents a mixed picture, with consumers still grappling with high prices for essentials such as groceries, and housing. —

Boston Herald Wire Services, Boston Herald, 15 Jan. 2025 The group — which for the last decade has been dedicated to preventing homelessness by creating first-ever homes and a community for youth aging out of foster care — is launching Home Bank LA, which will offer survivors comprehensive home kits with essentials for families and individuals. —

Kirsten Chuba, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for essential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for essential

Adjective

Timing one’s necessary exit from power is, of course, one of life’s most vexing conundrums and Biden hardly is alone in blowing the moment.

— The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 Jan. 2025
That relentless focus is necessary, especially for a team that has struggled defensively — an area long associated with Thibodeau’s coaching identity.

— Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 19 Jan. 2025