Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Crucial; vitally important: Describes something of the utmost importance, where its function, position, or role is critical to the success or stability of a larger system.
   • Strategic; key: Refers to a point or position of great tactical or strategic significance, often in military, geographical, or organizational contexts.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đây là một vị trí xung yếu cần được bảo vệ nghiêm ngặt. (This is a strategic position that needs to be strictly protected.)
  • Anh ấy đảm nhiệm một nhiệm vụ xung yếu trong dự án. (He is in charge of a crucial task in the project.)
  • Các điểm xung yếu trên tuyến phòng thủ đã được củng cố. (The key points on the defensive line have been reinforced.)

Advanced Usage

• Used primarily in formal, analytical, or strategic contexts such as military planning, security, business strategy, and critical infrastructure.
• Often modifies nouns like (position), (point), (task/mission), (area/zone).

Variants and Related Words

• Then chốt (adj): pivotal, linchpin. Often used interchangeably with but can imply a central supporting role.
  • Cầu đường là huyết mạch then chốt của nền kinh tế. (Roads and bridges are the pivotal lifelines of the economy.)

Synonyms

• Crucial: Of decisive importance.
• Vital: Absolutely necessary or essential.
• Key: Of paramount importance.
• Strategic: Related to the identification of long-term or overall aims and interests.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Mặt xung yếu: A weak point or vulnerability (literally "crucial face/side"), often used to describe a critical flaw.
  • Kẻ địch luôn tìm cách khai thác mặt xung yếu của ta. (The enemy always seeks to exploit our weak points.)

adj

1. important