significance

noun

sig-ˈni-fi-kən(t)s How to pronounce significance (audio)
Definition of significancenext
1
as in meaning
the idea that is conveyed or intended to be conveyed to the mind by language, symbol, or action the significance of that word is much debated by biblical scholars

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in importance
the quality or state of being important the political significance of the special commission's report

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun significance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of significance are consequence, importance, moment, and weight. While all these words mean "a quality or aspect having great worth or significance," 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 consequence a more appropriate choice than significance?

The words consequence and significance 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 importance take the place of significance?

The words importance and significance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, importance implies a value judgment of the superior worth or influence of something or someone.

a region with no cities of importance

When would moment be a good substitute for significance?

The meanings of moment and significance largely overlap; however, moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

Where would weight be a reasonable alternative to significance?

In some situations, the words weight and significance are roughly equivalent. However, 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 significance This year, the campaign takes on even greater significance as the Los Angeles community continues to recover from devastating wildfires. — Jem Aswad, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025 Celebrations Dan Burn may be enjoying the week of his life but, in one sense, the timing of the Carabao Cup final was inopportune for celebrating this triumph in a manner befitting its historical significance. — Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 18 Mar. 2025 The structure’s preservation quality and scale add to its significance. — Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 18 Mar. 2025 Cassidy would appear to be a man yearning for an experience that gives meaning to his life, which seems to have atrophied, lost its significance. — Deborah Treisman, The New Yorker, 16 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for significance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for significance
  1. meaning
  2. importance
  3. sense
  4. import
  5. content
  6. magnitude
  7. intent
  8. consequence
Noun
  • But like many cold cases, as with Barbara Newhall Follett, the meaning can only be realized in fiction.
    — Patti Callahan Henry, People.com, 16 Mar. 2025
  • With a fervor that is another aspect of his ongoing meaning to the franchise — a legendary work ethic that remains the model.
    — Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 16 Mar. 2025
Definition of meaning
Noun
  • Looking toward the future of Korean content globally, Seo emphasized the importance of genre diversity while maintaining quality.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 18 Mar. 2025
  • The apparel industry cannot afford to ignore the importance of investing in its majority workforce.
    — Adele Stafford, Sourcing Journal, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of importance
Noun
  • On the surface, this decision makes a lot of sense.
    — Mark Davis, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Rather than surprising the audience with the plane crash that sets off Death’s design, each iteration of the script opens with a sense of foreboding that something is wrong.
    — Todd Gilchrist, Variety, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of sense
Noun
  • Maeda himself was inspired to come to America by two more of the most successful Japanese imports.
    — Jamie Barton, CNN, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Both nations also account for 70% of the imports of two key home construction materials: lumber and gypsum.
    — Alex Veiga, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of import
Noun
  • Its curriculum will encompass various aspects of the creative and business sides of the music industry, including content creation, performing, touring, entertainment law, engineering and graphic design.
    — Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The American Diabetes Association and a group of obesity expert orgs have released statements advising patients against using them due to the potential for content and quality issues.
    — Erica Sloan, SELF, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of content
Noun
  • The top-heavy magnitude of their payroll could become problematic this offseason.
    — Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The last time there was an order of this magnitude was the Edward Snowden revelations, when The Guardian revealed that the FBI had asked Verizon for the call details records for incoming and outgoing calls in the United States.
    — Kevin Williams, CNBC, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of magnitude
Noun
  • Limas pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, court records show.
    — Staff report, Hartford Courant, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Instead, the legal question may hinge on the intent of the dominant partner to continue engaging in especially risky acts and her awareness of the potential danger.
    — Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of intent
Noun
  • Research shows that narcissistic employees are more likely to behave unethically, potentially leading to legal consequences.
    — Jonathan Gay, The Conversation, 21 Mar. 2025
  • And while the outcome could have far-reaching consequences, Hanni and the girls are choosing not to worry about what those might be right now.
    — Chad de Guzman, TIME, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of consequence

Browse Nearby Words

signed (up or on)
significance
significances
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Significance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/significance. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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