1. Significant (adjective): Having meaning or importance; notable or noteworthy.
2. Significant (adjective): Large enough to be noticed or have an effect; considerable or substantial.
3. Significant (adjective, statistical): Relating to results unlikely due to chance; statistically meaningful.
4. Significant (informal): Suggestive in expression; implying something not directly stated.
"Significant" is a widely used word with both literal and technical meanings. It can refer to something important, impactful, or even subtly expressive. It plays a key role in everyday language, academic writing, and even statistics. Read on to explore how "significant" is used in different contexts and why it matters so much in communication.
"Significant" generally describes something that holds meaning, importance, or influence. Whether you're talking about a meaningful moment, a large result, or a scientific finding, "significant" is the word people reach for to emphasize impact.
This is the most common use of "significant." It refers to something that stands out because it's important, meaningful, or valuable. In conversations, decisions, or events, this version highlights something that deserves attention.
Here, "significant" refers to size or effect. If something is big enough to make a difference, it's considered significant. This usage is common in science, medicine, business, and news reports.
In statistics, "significant" has a technical meaning. A result is statistically significant if it is unlikely to have occurred by chance. This doesn't always mean the result is important in the real world—it means the result is trustworthy.
Used informally, "significant" can describe a look or gesture that suggests something deeper. A "significant glance," for example, might imply understanding or a hidden message between two people.
The word "significant" is mainly used as an adjective. It describes nouns by pointing out their importance, size, or implication. Though rarely used in other forms, related words like "significantly" (adverb) and "significance" (noun) are very common and help express similar ideas in different grammatical contexts.
"Significant" is a four-syllable word and is easy to pronounce once broken down.
To pronounce "significant," start with “sig,” which rhymes with “dig.” Next, say “nif,” like in “sniff.” Then follow with “i,” which sounds like a soft "uh," and finally end with “cant,” pronounced like “kənt.” Put the stress on the second syllable: “nif.”
Phonetic Pronunciation: /sɪɡ-NIF-ɪ-kənt/
Knowing the synonyms of "significant" can help you vary your word choice and express yourself more precisely. Here are some words that can be used in place of "significant," depending on the context:
Understanding the opposites of "significant" helps clarify its true meaning and shows how it contrasts with less impactful ideas.
Here are ten examples that show how "significant" is used in real-life sentences. These examples highlight its flexibility in different topics and tones.
The word "significant" is used frequently in both spoken and written English, especially in academic, scientific, and professional contexts. According to Google's Ngram Viewer, usage of "significant" has steadily increased since the 1900s, peaking in recent decades due to its importance in research and formal writing. Its technical meaning in statistics also contributes to its widespread use.
"Significant" has a few notable variations that shift its role in a sentence but keep its core idea intact.
These words are often connected to or used with "significant" in writing and conversation.
The word "significant" comes from the Latin word significans, which means “indicating” or “showing.” It evolved from the verb significare, meaning “to signify.” The word entered English in the late 1500s and was originally used to describe things that conveyed meaning. Over time, it took on broader definitions, including importance and measurable effects, especially in science and data analysis.
Here are a few related words that derive from or are compounded with "significant." They extend its meaning and allow for more precise communication.
Misspelling "significant" can lead to confusion, especially in formal writing. Watch out for these common errors:
Idioms that express importance or notable effects can act as colorful alternatives to "significant."
People often have questions about how to use "significant" correctly. Here are some helpful answers.
1. What does "significant" mean in general?
"Significant" means important, meaningful, or large enough to have an effect or be noticed.
2. Can "significant" be used in math or science?
Yes, it often refers to measurable differences, especially in research or statistics where results are unlikely due to chance.
3. Is "significant" always about size?
No, it can also refer to importance, symbolism, or meaning, not just size or amount.
4. What is a "significant other"?
This term refers to a romantic partner who plays an important role in one’s life, such as a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse.
5. What makes a finding "statistically significant"?
It means the result is unlikely to have happened by random chance, indicating it's probably a real effect or difference.
6. How is "significant" different from "important"?
"Important" is more general, while "significant" often includes measurable impact or deeper meaning.
7. Can a glance really be "significant"?
Yes, a "significant glance" can silently communicate understanding, feelings, or a hidden message.
8. What's a "significant moment"?
It’s a time or event that has great meaning or impact, such as a life-changing decision or milestone.
9. Can "significant" have a negative meaning?
Yes, if something harmful or unwanted is large or meaningful in impact, it can be called significant in a negative way.
10. How can I use "significant" in a sentence about change?
You could say, “The new policy led to a significant change in employee satisfaction.”
"Significant" refers to something important, meaningful, or large enough to have an impact. It’s a valuable word that works in everyday speech, science, relationships, and more. Keep exploring and using words like "significant" to enrich your vocabulary and express yourself more clearly.
