significant
word
Definition
Important enough to deserve attention, or large enough to have a noticeable effect. It can describe something meaningful, serious, or clearly greater than usual.
Usage & Nuances
Common in formal, academic, business, and news contexts. Often appears before nouns: 'a significant change', 'significant difference', 'significant amount'. For importance in everyday speech, people also often say 'important'; 'significant' sounds slightly more formal and can also suggest size or measurable impact.
Example Sentences
There was a significant change in the weather today.
basic
This test is significant for your final grade.
basic
She made a significant amount of progress in a week.
basic
The new policy could have a significant impact on small businesses.
natural
Losing that client was a significant setback for the team.
natural
That conversation marked a significant turning point in our relationship.
natural