WordGarden.iovitally
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈaɪtəli/
US
- /ˈvaɪtəli/
Meanings
Adverb
to an extremely important or necessary degree
Beyond the definition
When something is vitally important, it is not just useful or helpful. It is absolutely necessary. The word adds strong force to an idea, showing that something matters in a very serious way. You might say that clean water is vitally important to public health, or that trust is vitally important in a relationship. In both cases, the meaning is clear: without it, real harm would follow.
The word comes from the same root as vital, so it often carries the feeling of life, survival, or basic function. It is commonly used to stress that something is central to success, safety, or well-being. For example, a doctor may say it is vitally important to begin treatment early, or a manager may say clear communication is vitally important for a project to succeed.
The word vitally functions as an adverb, describing an action or state that is essential for existence, success, or health. It emphasizes a high degree of necessity—it isn't merely helpful or desirable, but indispensable. For instance, stating that "clean water is vitally important to public health" highlights that without it, the health of a community would suffer significantly and immediately.
You will often encounter vitally when discussing topics fundamental to progress or stability. A strong sense of trust is vitally important for a functional marriage, just as a stable power grid is vitally important for a modern city. The word is intentionally stronger than "importantly"; it implies a direct, unbreakable link to survival or effectiveness.
Vitally can also describe the intensity of an emotion or interest. If someone is "vitally concerned" about a situation, their worry is deep, urgent, and linked to their core values. Similarly, being "vitally interested" in a subject suggests that the person finds it incredibly compelling, as if the information is essential to their own growth or understanding.
Think of it this way: if you could remove a factor without causing major harm, it is likely just "important." However, if removing that factor causes the entire structure to fail or die, it is vitally important. When you want to emphasize that something is a "must-have" rather than a "nice-to-have," vitally is the perfect word to use.
Examples
- 1
Instructions
It's vitally important to read the instructions carefully.
- 2
Public services
Public transport is vitally important to people who don't own cars.
- 3
Rural hospitals
More nurses are vitally needed in rural hospitals.
- 4
Business impact
The new law could vitally affect small businesses.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Tourism economy
The island is vitally dependent on tourism.
- 6
Weather concern
Local farmers are vitally concerned about the lack of rain.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- vitally important
- vitally necessary
- vitally important to
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- vitallyadverb