crux

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "crux" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the central or crucial point of an argument or problem. For example, "The crux of the matter is that we need to find a solution that works for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The crux of the speech was Cameron, in full John Wayne mode, giving the Conservative party the heartening news that he wants to win the next election, not form another coalition.

The Guardian - Opinion

The length of the research period would enable us to really get to the crux of how their relationships with energy would evolve over this time.

The Guardian

Here's the crux from Shorten, who said Labor had supported a chaplaincy scheme "which would see trained welfare professionals being there to back up the work of our teachers to make sure our children are doing well".

The Guardian

The crux of the prosecution case is that Whelan knew that Fofana was connected to an organisation that would re-sell the tickets for profit, Kac said.

The Guardian - Sport

So the crux of the issue here is whether providing an opinion beneath an article is journalism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Large numbers of people were persuaded by that message, that is the crux of it".

The Guardian

The hardest – or crux sections – on Dawn Wall also involve very poor slippery footholds where the climber needs to rely on the friction of rubber-soled shoes against the wall and tiny razor-sharp flakes for two finger tips.

The Guardian

This was the crux of the debate at the telecommunications conference in Dubai.

The Economist

Indeed his personal tribute to Unscom's effectiveness is that in the past year he has dug his heels in so hard just as inspectors were closing in on his still largely hidden biological weapons complex.And that is now the crux of the issue.

The Economist

Economists affect the lives of others, often substantially that is the crux of the matter.

The Economist

And on the matter of causality which one might say is the crux of the debate they can do no better than argue that the evidence is mixed.But most of their letter can be described as an argument that, historically, high debt loads have been associated with various macroeconomic risks, and it is worth acting to minimise such risks.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "crux" to pinpoint the core challenge when analyzing complex problems, offering clarity and focus in discussions. It is more precise than using terms like "issue" or "problem".

Common error

Avoid labeling a secondary detail as the "crux". The "crux" should represent the most fundamental and irreducible element of the matter at hand, not a peripheral aspect.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "crux" is as a noun, typically used to denote the central or critical point of an issue, argument, or problem. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "crux" effectively highlights the central point of an issue, argument, or problem. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and broad applicability. Predominantly found in "News & Media", it maintains a "neutral" register, suitable for both formal and informal communication, though leaning towards professional analytical contexts. When aiming for alternatives, consider synonyms like "central point" or "core issue" to maintain precision. Remember, the "crux" isn't just any detail, but the most irreducible element demanding focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central point

Focuses on the idea of being the most important part.

key aspect

Highlights a particular element that is essential.

core issue

Emphasizes that the problem lies at the heart of the matter.

essential element

Suggests a component that is indispensable.

critical factor

Indicates a significant influence or cause.

main concern

Points to what is primarily worrying or of interest.

pivotal moment

Highlights a turning point or decisive event.

turning point

Focuses on a moment when a significant change occurs.

decisive factor

Suggests an element that determines the outcome.

bottom line

Emphasizes the fundamental or most important consideration.

FAQs

How to use "crux" in a sentence?

The "crux" is typically used to highlight the most important aspect of a problem, argument, or decision. For example, "The crux of the matter is whether we can afford the repairs."

What can I say instead of "crux"?

You can use alternatives like "central point", "core issue", or "key aspect" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "crux" or "crucial point"?

Both "crux" and "crucial point" are correct, but "crux" often implies a more intricate or decisive element. "Crucial point" is a more general term for something important.

What's the difference between "crux" and "essence"?

"Crux" refers to the most vital point of an argument or problem, while "essence" refers to the intrinsic nature or defining characteristic of something. While related, "crux" is more about decision-making or understanding a problem.