all-important

UK: ˌɔːl ɪmˈpɔːtnt | US: ˌɔːl ɪmˈpɔːrtnt

Definition

  1. adj. of the greatest importance; essential

Structure
all <entire>important <significant>
Etymology

The word "all-important" is a compound adjective formed by combining "all" (Old English eall, meaning "entire" or "whole") with "important" (from Latin importare, "to bring in, signify"). The fusion emphasizes totality in significance, suggesting something is not just important but supremely or universally so. The hyphenated form emerged in English to clarify the unified meaning of the two components.

Examples

  1. Safety measures are all-important in laboratory work.

  2. The CEO stressed the all-important role of customer satisfaction.

  3. In chess, the opening moves can be all-important.

  4. She focused on the all-important details of the contract.

  5. Trust is all-important in any lasting relationship.