importance

word · lemma: important

/ˌɪmˈpɔɹtəns/
im-POR-tuhns
/ɪmpˈɔːtəns/
im-PAW-tuhns

Definition

The value, influence, or effect that something has, especially in making a situation, decision, or result significant.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns: 'the importance of something', 'of great importance', and 'place importance on'. It is more formal than 'how important something is'. Don't confuse it with 'priority': importance is value or significance, while priority is what comes first.

Example Sentences

Teachers often talk about the importance of reading.

basic

She understands the importance of being on time.

basic

This meeting has special importance for our team.

basic

I didn't realize the importance of that email until later.

natural

He tends to place too much importance on what other people think.

natural

At the time, it seemed minor, but it grew in importance over the years.

natural