IMPORTANCE Synonyms: 74 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

importance

noun

im-ˈpȯr-tᵊn(t)s

Definition of importance next

as in significance

the quality or state of being important a final exam has great importance

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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 Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel talked about the importance of cross-training offensive linemen prior to the regular season. —

C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 28 Jan. 2025 As a physical therapist, Yu emphasizes the importance of exercise for longevity and better movement versus simple aesthetic benefits. —

Christa Sgobba, SELF, 27 Jan. 2025 Garcia emphasizes the importance of donating new clothing, rather than second-hand items, as many fire victims still need to dress for work or meetings with insurance companies. —

Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 17 Jan. 2025 Research published in 2010 in Self and Identity notes the importance of self-compassion. —

Mark Travers, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for importance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance

Noun

Over the next few centuries, the abbey’s importance as a place of study and prayer, as well as its political and cultural significance, only grew.

— Shoshi Parks, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Jan. 2025
These beads open a window into ancient trade routes and the cultural significance of amber in the region.

— Stories by Real-Time news team, with AI summarization, Miami Herald, 31 Jan. 2025