importance

noun

im·​por·​tance im-ˈpȯr-tᵊn(t)s 

especially Southern US and New England -tən(t)s, 

-dən(t)s

1

a

: the quality or state of being important : consequence

took a position of some importance

b

: an important aspect or bearing : significance

an event of great importance in history

2

obsolete : import, meaning

3

obsolete : importunity

4

obsolete : a weighty matter

Synonyms of importance

• significance
• import
• consequence
• magnitude

Choose the Right Synonym for importance

importance, consequence, moment, weight, significance 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

consequence generally implies importance because of probable or possible effects.

the style you choose is of little consequence

moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

weight implies a judgment of the immediate relative importance of something.

the argument carried no weight with the judge

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

Examples of importance in a Sentence

The teacher lectured the students on the importance of mutual respect.

He exaggerated the importance of his role in the rescue mission.

The negotiations have taken on added importance in the wake of the bomb attack.

a matter of little importance

Recent Examples on the Web

Each game carries its own degree of importance, but all could impact the 12-team CFP. — Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026

The pantry has seen as many as 1,000 cars arrive, showing both the depth of the need and the importance of dependable support. — Christine Franz, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Sep. 2026

On social media, Combs herself often shares content about divorce, speaking about the importance of financial independence and prenuptial agreements. — ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026

Also touted the national security importance of Intel Foundry. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing importance

• a matter of urgency/importance
• self-importance

Rhymes for importance

• portance
• unimportance

Kids Definition

importance

noun

im·​por·​tance im-ˈpȯrt-ᵊn(t)s 

-ən(t)s

: the quality or state of being important