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Showing results for instrumental. Search instead for instrumentat.
Definitions

instrumental

[in-struh-men-tl] / ˌɪn strəˈmɛn tl /
ADJECTIVE
influential, assisting
Synonyms
STRONGEST
involved
WEAK
active auxiliary conducive contributory helpful helping of help of service partly responsible serviceable subsidiary useful
Antonyms
WEAK
unhelpful useless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While he was instrumental in the buildup to Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

The scene where the quartet plays their pre-wedding parlor game occurs about 25 minutes into Borgli’s film, and is ripe with instrumental, pre-twist subtext.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The former was instrumental in Argentina's World Cup win in 2022, while the latter was the driving force behind PSG's first Champions League title.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Indeed, it may be instrumental in determining the fate of millions of American-born infants.

From Slate • Mar. 18, 2026

I bet Coach Johnson was instrumental in convincing Will to turn in his girlfriend.

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan