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 practice reminds Christians of human mortality and the importance of reconciling with God. Chris Sims, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 Feb. 2026 That landmark piece of legislation, which is underpinned by the importance of reducing recidivism, decreased mandatory minimums for nonviolent drug offenses and resulted in the early release from prison for thousands of people. Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 18 Feb. 2026 Despite higher prices, buying of gold bars and jewelry has remained firm in parts of Asia, markets where gold carries cultural and financial importance. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026 Its importance is underscored by its position in the space. Ryan Conner, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for importance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance
Noun
  • As far as the historical significance of the game, the 16-point home defeat was only surpassed (in the Self era) by a 25-point loss to Texas in 2021, 23-point loss to TCU in 2023 and 18-point loss to Kentucky in 2022.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 21 Feb. 2026
  • What is the significance, or importance, of doing this?
    Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The new policy builds upon previous legislation that nixed tariffs for imports from 33 African countries.
    Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The researchers recommended that the EU pass legislation proposed by the European Commission to ban Hungary and Slovakia’s imports of Russian crude oil as soon as possible.
    Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In addition, health insurers have to assess the consequences for their own profitability, Mattie said.
    Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 22 Feb. 2026
  • Safety briefings are being held this week with Officer Lattin and school administrators on appropriate technology use and the legal consequences of creating or possessing explicit images, including those generated by AI.
    Doug Myers, CBS News, 22 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • But the magnitude of the Potter series is such that the role might stick near the top of Melling’s obituary.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Given the magnitude of that investment, Mitchell told Sustain Charlotte his constituents need a better picture of the project.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Importance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/importance. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.

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