Synonym Chooser

How does the noun significance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of significance are consequence, importance, moment, and weight. While all these words mean "a quality or aspect having great worth or significance," 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 consequence a more appropriate choice than significance?

The words consequence and significance 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 importance take the place of significance?

The words importance and significance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, importance implies a value judgment of the superior worth or influence of something or someone.

a region with no cities of importance

When would moment be a good substitute for significance?

The meanings of moment and significance largely overlap; however, moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

Where would weight be a reasonable alternative to significance?

In some situations, the words weight and significance are roughly equivalent. However, 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 significance By highlighting this contradiction, Hannah-Jones reinforces the historical and contemporary significance of Douglass’s message, urging America to grapple seriously with its unresolved racial injustices. Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 4 July 2025 It is known for being the home to the the family of 27th U.S. president, William Howard Taft, but its historical significance is attributed to a Black artist who defied the odds of his time. Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 Regardless of its precise origins, there’s little question as to the significance of foul in Middle Eastern cuisine. Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 While the pontiff represents Roman Catholics globally, the office's historic significance and influence in world affairs continue to this day, and Pope Francis was vocal on topics such as welcoming immigrants, curbing climate change and creating a more inclusive church. David Plazas, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for significance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for significance
Noun
  • In 1689, Locke examined natural rights in the second treatise of Two Treatises on Government, but his first treatise established the full meaning of those rights.
    Time, Time, 1 July 2025
  • April 2025 The Hierophant: April invites you to seek deeper meaning and wisdom from your life, Pisces.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Indoor facilities have grown in importance as MLS considers aligning its schedule with the biggest global soccer leagues.
    Jason Clinkscales, Sportico.com, 1 July 2025
  • While some fans expressed disappointment for the change, many emphasized the importance of it.
    Caché McClay, USA Today, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Those who can surrender a sense of control and stay curious throughout this new journey will feel the most aligned.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
  • Though on the surface the blazing, barking vocals and triple-time speed of the track are seemingly at odds with the Foos’ typical mix of pop hooks and radio-friendly rock, the cover makes perfect sense given Grohl’s punk rock pedigree.
    Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • In contrast to exports, imports from Ukraine into Central Europe have shown significant volatility in recent years.
    Lidia Kurasinska, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • The two countries have yet to finalize a deal on steel imports — while broader U.S. steel tariff policy is keeping prices elevated stateside and depressed elsewhere.
    Jenni Reid, CNBC, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • All too familiar with the fixation consumers have on styling a not-so-effortlessly distressed L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is Niko Arredondo, a content creator based out of Phoenix, Ariz.
    Elizabeth Grace Coyne, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025
  • Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content.
    Matthew Korfhage, Wired News, 29 June 2025
Noun
  • Only many days after the start of the heat wave would the magnitude of the tragedy begin to sink in, as newspaper articles and nightly news reports tallied hundreds of deaths across Chicago.
    Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 6 July 2025
  • That’s the magnitude of the findings in this study.
    Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 3 July 2025
Noun
  • Not proving that intent could mean a lesser conviction like criminally negligent homicide with a 1-2 year prison sentence or reckless homicide at 2-4 years at the time.
    Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 4 July 2025
  • Trump has also expressed intent to resume diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 4 July 2025
Noun
  • Federal agencies including the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have warned of strict consequences for doctors and hospitals providing care opposed by the administration.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2025
  • But appealing to both audiences has led to an unintended consequence: clubs playing in conditions many have never encountered before.
    Emma Moon, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Significance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/significance. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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