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 Hinamoto is keenly aware of the importance of continuing the tradition of Japanese denim, not just in terms of production but as an integral part of Japan’s cultural heritage. Jessica Binns, Sourcing Journal, 18 Mar. 2026 Phinazee echoed that sentiment, underscoring the importance of authenticity in telling his brother’s story. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 18 Mar. 2026 While that date might have the darkest circle around it on the Kings’ calendar, each tilt will be of critical importance. Andrew Knoll, Daily News, 18 Mar. 2026 Mahan pushed back on the importance of collecting gas tax revenue. Los Angeles Times, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for importance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance
Noun
  • Given toads held special significance of toads in many southwestern Chinese cultures, archaeologists had to deduce that the drum carried not only music, but deeper messages and meanings.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 15 Mar. 2026
  • And yet what emerges from this elemental minorness is an art form with its own significance.
    Naomi Fry, New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Japan imports almost all its oil, and Brent crude — the international standard — has jumped in recent weeks to about $100 a barrel.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Where else could Cuba find oil imports?
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The horse is very confused by your utter lack of consideration as to the consequences.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Jones was stuck on his left hip, a consequence of his gamble to lunge for a steal on the pass to Gilgeous-Alexander.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The world cannot afford another tragedy of that magnitude.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Alcantara lamented not being able to do more for his country that night, especially given the magnitude of the moment.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Importance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/importance. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

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