WordGarden.iosignificant
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sɪɡnˈɪfɪkənt/
US
- /səɡˈnɪfɪkənt/
Meanings
Adjective
important enough to deserve attention or have consequences
large enough in amount, effect, or degree to be noticeable
carrying or suggesting a particular meaning
More meaningsFewer meanings
in statistics, unlikely to be due to chance
Beyond the definition
Something significant isn't just big—it matters. It holds weight, has an impact, or stands out as being important in some way. A significant event might be your graduation, a historical turning point, or even a small act of kindness that deeply affects someone. You might describe a scientific discovery as "highly significant" if it changes our understanding of the world. Think of it like this: everything is something, but only certain things are significant.
Consider the story of Amelia Earhart. Her attempt to fly around the world wasn't just a flight; it was a significant moment in aviation history, pushing boundaries and inspiring generations. A small detail, like the color of her plane, may not matter much. But the fact that she attempted such a daring feat? Absolutely.
The word "significant" describes something that is important enough to be worthy of attention; it carries weight or meaning beyond the ordinary. It is more than just large in size—a tiny detail can be highly significant if it has a big impact.
"Significant" can refer to importance in several contexts. In statistics, "statistically significant" means that a result is unlikely to have occurred by chance; it represents a real effect rather than a random fluke. In history, a "significant event" is one that had lasting consequences and changed the course of events. In personal relationships, a "significant other" is someone you care for deeply and with whom you share a committed relationship.
The word comes from the Latin significare, meaning "to mean" or "to make a sign." So, to say something is significant is to say it means something important. It implies consequence, relevance, or lasting value.
You might describe a change in policy as "significant" if it will have a wide-reaching effect on people's lives. A small gesture of support can be "significant" to someone going through a difficult time. A seemingly minor character in a novel could play a significant role in the plot's resolution. When you use the word "significant," remember it's about more than just size or quantity—it's about meaning, impact, and lasting importance. It highlights what truly matters.
Examples
- 1
Price comparison
There was a significant difference in price between the two hotels.
- 2
Attendance
A significant number of students were absent after the storm.
- Patternsignificant number of + plural noun
quite a large number of
- 3
Property damage
The fire caused significant damage to several homes.
- 4
Personal influence
Her older sister played a significant role in her decision to move abroad.
- Patternplay a significant role in + event/decision
be very important in it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Results
Even small mistakes can have a significant effect on the final result.
- 6
Family meaning
That date is significant to my family because it's the day my grandparents met.
- Patternsignificant to + person/group
especially important or meaningful to them
- 7
Romantic partner
Are you bringing your significant other to the wedding?
- Phrasesignificant other
husband, wife, or romantic partner
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
- statistical significance
Used with (collocations)
- significant change
- significant impact
- significant amount
- significant factor
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- significantadjective