Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
pivotal skill
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"pivotal skill" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a skill or ability that is essential for success in a certain area. For example, "Working on my public speaking skills has been a pivotal skill for me as a business professional."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Wiki
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
A pivotal skill in this kind of a world would be to "find one's thing".
This negotiation process is a pivotal skill for URM students to acquire if they are to effectively navigate the cultural environments in which science education takes place.
Science
The header is another pivotal skill for the game.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
56 human-written examples
Inquiry skills are a pivotal target of (science) education.
At such a pivotal time in the skills agenda we need vocal and experienced students to fight for what is right and important".
News & Media
Accurate face processing skills are pivotal for typical social cognition, and impairments in this ability characterise various clinical conditions (e.g., prosopagnosia).
Science
22 As a consequence, the frontal lobes are important for EF but it is the integrity of the entire brain that is pivotal for successful executive skills.
Science
It emerged that hands-on training of clinical examination skills is pivotal in the transition to clinical education, forming a rite of passage in student's professional socialization process.
Science
Nasogastric tube placement was selected as the clinical task as this skill represents a pivotal routine procedure in internal medicine.
Science
IV catheter insertion was selected as the clinical task as this skill represents a pivotal routine procedure in internal medicine [ 29, 30].
Science
Parents are often integral parts of behavioral intervention programs for children with ASD, and there is substantial evidence that providing parents with the skills to implement pivotal response training (a form of applied behavior analysis) can assist in teaching children with ASD self-management skills (Koegel & Kern Koegel, 2006; Schreibman & Koegel, 1996).
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "pivotal skill", clearly define the context or area where the skill is important to ensure the reader understands its significance.
Common error
Avoid using "pivotal skill" for skills that are merely helpful or beneficial. Reserve it for skills that are truly essential and game-changing within a given context.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "pivotal skill" functions as an adjective-noun combination. The adjective "pivotal" modifies the noun "skill", emphasizing its crucial importance or centrality. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a valid and usable phrase.
Frequent in
Science
33%
News & Media
33%
Wiki
33%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "pivotal skill" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that effectively emphasizes the critical importance of a specific ability. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While currently rare in usage, it's found across diverse fields, including science, news, and wiki sources. Alternative phrases, such as "essential skill" or "critical skill", can provide similar emphasis. When using the phrase, clarity and context are important to reinforce the skill's true significance.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
essential skill
Emphasizes the necessity of the skill.
critical skill
Highlights the crucial nature of the skill for success.
key skill
Focuses on the skill being a fundamental element.
fundamental skill
Stresses the foundational aspect of the skill.
vital skill
Indicates the skill is indispensable for a particular outcome.
indispensable skill
Highlights that the skill is absolutely necessary.
important skill
General term emphasizing the value of the skill.
central skill
Indicates that the skill is a core component.
core skill
Highlights the skill as a crucial element.
major skill
Emphasizes the significant impact of the skill.
FAQs
How to use "pivotal skill" in a sentence?
You can use "pivotal skill" to describe a skill that is crucial or essential for success in a particular area. For example, "Effective communication is a pivotal skill for leaders".
What can I say instead of "pivotal skill"?
You can use alternatives like "essential skill", "critical skill", or "key skill" depending on the context.
Is "pivotal skill" formal or informal?
"Pivotal skill" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and audience. It's a clear and professional way to emphasize the importance of a skill.
What makes a skill "pivotal"?
A skill is "pivotal" when it plays a crucial role in determining the outcome or success of a situation, project, or endeavor. It's more than just helpful; it's indispensable.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested