What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
integral
Example
The team captain was an integral part of the team's success. [integral: adjective]
Example
The new software is integral to the company's operations. [integral: adjective]
essential
Example
Water is essential for life. [essential: adjective]
Example
Good communication skills are essential for success in any job. [essential: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Essential is more commonly used than integral in everyday language. Essential is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while integral is less common and has a more specialized connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between integral and essential?
Both integral and essential can be used in formal and informal contexts, but integral may be more commonly used in technical or specialized fields.
