pivotal position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pivotal position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a crucial or central role in a situation, organization, or process. Example: "In the project, she held a pivotal position that influenced the overall outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His qualifications for this pivotal position were eminent.

The New York Times - Books

Torre admitted that he never expected Gooden to be in a pivotal position.

The New York Times - Sports

Tonight's achievements affirm the pivotal position of London within the international art market".

The Guardian - Arts

In any case, there is nothing new about the Front National's pivotal position in French politics.

The Guardian

Teixeira dives, he scrambles, he scoops and he plays a pivotal position impeccably.

The New York Times - Sports

These different roles place you in a pivotal position to promote a culture of respect.

University of California, Berkeley

Clearly, the owner was aware of the parcel's pivotal position and seemed determined to exploit it.

Harvard University

The Ugandan Ministry of Health emphasises the pivotal position of women in securing the nation's health.

Health & Place

That puts them in a pivotal position to determine how derivatives are traded.

The New York Times

Banks occupy a pivotal position in the short-term and intermediate-term money markets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sod that!" Affairs of the head and heart The Real Thing occupies a pivotal position in Stoppard's output.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pivotal position", ensure the context clearly demonstrates how the position significantly influences the outcome or direction of the situation. Use specific examples to illustrate its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "pivotal position" for roles or elements that have only marginal impact. Ensure the position genuinely holds substantial influence and isn't merely contributory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pivotal position" functions as a noun phrase, where "pivotal" modifies the noun "position". It describes a situation or role of significant importance, indicating that it is central to a particular outcome. Ludwig confirms the proper usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pivotal position" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a critically important role or location. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly reflects the substantial influence of the position. Alternatives like "critical role" or "central role" can be used to provide variety. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for various communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical role

Focuses on the importance of the function performed.

central role

Emphasizes the position as being at the heart of something.

key position

Highlights the significance of the position.

essential role

Stresses the necessity of the function.

crucial position

Indicates the decisive nature of the position.

strategic position

Highlights the importance for achieving goals.

fundamental position

Highlights position as a base or starting point.

cornerstone position

Implies the position is a basic and essential element.

significant position

Underscores the notable impact or influence of the position.

influential position

Focuses on the capacity to affect outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "pivotal position" in a sentence?

You can use "pivotal position" to describe a role, element, or factor that is critically important in determining an outcome. For example, "The quarterback holds a pivotal position on the team" or "Technology plays a pivotal position in modern education".

What are some alternatives to "pivotal position"?

Alternatives include "critical role", "central role", "key position", and "essential role". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "pivotal role" or "pivotal position"?

Both "pivotal role" and "pivotal position" are correct and often interchangeable. "Position" emphasizes the placement or office held, while "role" emphasizes the function or part played. Choose the term that best fits the context.

What makes a position "pivotal"?

A position is considered "pivotal" if it has a decisive impact on the outcome or success of something. It implies that without that position, the results would be significantly different or unattainable. It's more than just important; it's a turning point.