What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
momentous
Example
The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a momentous occasion for the United States. [momentous: adjective]
Example
The discovery of penicillin was a momentous breakthrough in medicine. [momentous: adjective]
crucial
Example
It is crucial that we finish this project on time. [crucial: adjective]
Example
The success of the mission hinged on a crucial decision made by the team leader. [crucial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crucial is more commonly used than momentous in everyday language. Crucial is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while momentous is less common and often reserved for more significant or historical events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between momentous and crucial?
Both momentous and crucial can be used in formal and informal contexts, but momentous may be more formal due to its association with historical or significant events.
