importance

[ im-pawr-tns ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being important; consequence; significance.

   Synonyms: concern, weight, moment

2. important position or standing; personal or social consequence.
3. consequential air or manner:

   an air of bustling importance.

4. Obsolete. an important matter.
5. Obsolete. importunity.
6. Obsolete. import or meaning.

importance

/ ɪmˈpɔːtəns /

noun

1. the state of being important; significance
2. social status; standing; esteem

   a man of importance

3. obsolete.
   1. meaning or signification
   2. an important matter
   3. importunity

Other Words From

• preim·portance noun
• unim·portance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of importance¹

First recorded in 1495–1505; Medieval Latin importantia; important ( def ), -ance ( def )

Synonym Study

Importance, consequence, significance, moment all signify something valuable, influential, or worthy of note. Importance is the most general of these, assigning exceptional or notable value or influence to a person or thing: the importance of Einstein's discoveries. Consequence may suggest outstanding personal quality or position, or it may suggest importance because of results to be produced: a woman of consequence in world affairs; an event of great consequence for our future. Significance can be used interchangeably with importance or consequence, but it carries also the implication of importance that is not readily or immediately recognized: The significance of the discovery only became clear years later. Moment, on the other hand, almost always refers to immediately apparent, self-evident importance: a change of great moment for the nation's political system.

Example Sentences

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the investigation showed the importance of working "with our international partners to get results".

From BBC

But the strategic importance of the archipelago, known officially as the British Indian Ocean Territory, has prompted criticism that the agreement will deliver a security boost to China.

From BBC

Besides, importance is in the eyes of the beholder.

From Los Angeles Times

The process has taken on heightened importance as California has shifted to predominantly conducting elections by mail.

From Los Angeles Times

"We’re pleased that the courts have once again recognised the importance of safeguarding these rights," he added.

From BBC

Related Words

• attention
• concern
• consequence
• effect
• emphasis
• gravity
• influence
• interest
• priority
• relevance
• sense
• seriousness
• usefulness
• value