Translation guide
The English word "crucial" expresses that something is extremely important, decisive, or essential for success. In Japanese, this concept is conveyed through adjectives, adverbs, and set phrases that emphasize necessity, importance, or the critical nature of a situation. The most common and versatile equivalent is 重要 (じゅうよう), but other expressions like 肝心 (かんじん) and 不可欠 (ふかけつ) capture different nuances of "crucial."
To describe something as being of the utmost importance, often in a general sense.
The most common and neutral word for "important" or "crucial." It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
これは重要な問題です。
This is a crucial issue.
彼の役割は非常に重要だ。
His role is extremely crucial.
Means "crucial" or "vital," often implying that something is the key or most essential part. It carries a nuance of being the heart of the matter.
肝心なのは、チームワークです。
What's crucial is teamwork.
肝心の部分を忘れていた。
I forgot the crucial part.
Means "indispensable" or "essential." It emphasizes that something cannot be done without. Often used in formal or written contexts.
水は生命に不可欠です。
Water is crucial for life.
この要素は成功に不可欠だ。
This element is crucial for success.
Means "decisive" or "crucial" in the sense of determining an outcome. Often used in contexts like sports, battles, or decisions.
決定的な瞬間を逃した。
I missed the crucial moment.
To express that something is a necessary condition or key factor for a particular outcome.
A common pattern meaning "indispensable for ~." It directly conveys that something is crucial for a specific purpose.
成功に欠かせない要素
a crucial element for success
健康に欠かせない栄養素
nutrients crucial for health
A formal pattern meaning "extremely important for ~." It emphasizes the high degree of importance.
このプロジェクトにとって極めて重要な段階です。
This is a crucial stage for the project.
To refer to a critical juncture or turning point.
Refers to a crucial moment or critical juncture where one's true ability is tested. Often used in sports, business, or personal challenges.
ここが正念場だ。
This is the crucial moment.
Means "brink" or "critical moment," often implying a do-or-die situation. It can be used for crucial decisions or turning points.
重要 (じゅうよう) is the most general and can be used in almost any context. 肝心 (かんじん) emphasizes that something is the key or core element, often used when pointing out the most essential part. 不可欠 (ふかけつ) stresses indispensability; it is stronger and more formal, often used in written language or official statements.
While 決定的 (けっていてき) can mean 'crucial,' it specifically implies decisiveness or finality. Using it for general importance may sound unnatural. Stick to 重要 or 肝心 for most situations.
瀬戸際の決断
a crucial decision at the brink