Definition of importancenext

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 The study underscores the importance of revisionary science, said Elizabeth Dowding, chair of paleoenvironmental analysis at Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in Germany. Shraddha Chakradhar, CNN Money, 10 June 2026 Turner emphasized the importance of deep breathing as part of the practice. Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 10 June 2026 Julian took it all with aplomb, wanting to be a good example to his children and show them the importance of accountability. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 10 June 2026 The relationship between the structural and the everyday, the lived experience, continues to be of importance in my work. Emily Watlington, ARTnews.com, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for importance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance
Noun
  • So using these as natural barriers obviously has an enormous significance — enormous importance.
    Gabrielle Emanuel, NPR, 6 June 2026
  • For now, however, his focus is on preparing himself and his teammates for the country’s first FIFA World Cup match since Haiti played in 1974, and Miami carries a special significance along that goal.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 6 June 2026
Noun
  • And even more importantly, China has slashed its crude imports, turning instead to massive stockpiles.
    Matt Egan, CNN Money, 9 June 2026
  • The Justice Department subsequently appealed an earlier order by Eaton to make all businesses that paid the now-defunct import taxes eligible for refunds plus interest.
    Mae Anderson, Fortune, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • The economic consequences, however, are straightforward.
    Wayne Winegarden, Oc Register, 7 June 2026
  • Florida cattle industry braces for potential economic impact Even so, an outbreak could have major economic consequences for ranchers and dairy producers.
    CBS Miami Team, CBS News, 7 June 2026
Noun
  • Of course, they won’t all be realized, but the magnitude of the problem is clear.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026
  • While that was the priority, Jacobson says the magnitude of the loss remained present and continues to this day.
    Jennifer Mayerle, CBS News, 12 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Importance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/importance. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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