importance

noun

im-ˈpȯr-tᵊn(t)s How to pronounce importance (audio)
Definition of importancenext
as in significance
the quality or state of being important a final exam has great importance

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun importance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of importance are consequence, moment, significance, and weight. While all these words mean "a quality or aspect having great worth or significance," importance implies a value judgment of the superior worth or influence of something or someone.

a region with no cities of importance

When can consequence be used instead of importance?

The words consequence and importance can be used in similar contexts, but consequence generally implies importance because of probable or possible effects.

the style you choose is of little consequence

In what contexts can moment take the place of importance?

The words moment and importance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

When would significance be a good substitute for importance?

While the synonyms significance and importance are close in meaning, significance implies a quality or character that should mark a thing as important but that is not self-evident and may or may not be recognized.

the treaty's significance

When is weight a more appropriate choice than importance?

The synonyms weight and importance are sometimes interchangeable, but weight implies a judgment of the immediate relative importance of something.

the argument carried no weight with the judge

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of importance All of that might be worth exploring in the show, but that’s not the case being made in the Instagram comments, which continue to emphasize the importance of Snape’s whiteness. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 23 Apr. 2025 Discover the importance of using rain barrels to conserve water and learn how to assemble and properly place your barrel. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Apr. 2025 This program will cover strategies for maximizing productivity in small spaces, organic and regenerative gardening techniques, and the importance of building healthy soil. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Apr. 2025 Dean also underscores the importance of community engagement. —Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for importance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance
  1. significance
  2. import
  3. consequence
  4. magnitude
Noun
  • The Levi Strauss Museum takes visitors through Strauss’ journey, from his birth to his immigration to the U.S. Floors are dedicated to the history of jeans, featuring rare piece, and highlight the garment’s socio-cultural significance.
    — Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Colossal is leaning into the pop culture significance of its invention, including setting up the pups for a photo shoot on the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones, courtesy of Peter Jackson.
    — Adam Carlson, People.com, 7 Apr. 2025
Definition of significance
Noun
  • Since the start of President Trump's second term in office, a number of corporations have announced plans to expand their production capabilities in the U.S. The announcements come as some of the Trump administration's new tariffs take effect, with other import duties still pending.
    — Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Anxiety is high at international grocery stores reliant on imports.
    — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025
Definition of import
Noun
  • The consequences are disproportionately worse for families experiencing poverty that often lack the resources to help children catch up.
    — Beth Swanson, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025
  • For taxpayers who owe money, the consequences of a late filing can be costly, with steep monthly charges and daily interest accruals that quickly add up.
    — Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of consequence
Noun
  • The Homeschool Act has garnered national media attention due to the magnitude of the ...
    — James R. Mason, National Review, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Thousands of buildings were toppled by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that also resulted in damage to roads.
    — Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of magnitude

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Cite this Entry

“Importance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/importance. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

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