SIGNIFICANCE Synonyms: 122 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

significance

noun

sig-ˈni-fi-kən(t)s

Definition of significance next

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

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

Examples 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 Devoid of any significance for final standings, this was a game that, for the Eagles, featured its meaning within those who spend their time in the background. —

Brooks Kubena, The Athletic, 5 Jan. 2025 Karin Florez, a program coordinator with Communities in Schools, emphasized the significance of the support. —

Austin American-Statesman, 4 Jan. 2025 The parents of two discuss the cultural significance of the NAACP Image Awards, highlighting its impact on amplifying Black voices and driving social change, along with faith, aspirations and more. —

Todd Spangler, Variety, 3 Jan. 2025 These were story worlds to add to the significance of being grounded, to know the tiny but integral scale of your belonging in a timeless culture of country, while staring into the abyss of the world. —

Alexis Wright, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for significance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for significance

Noun

In some traditions, the shape and depth of the lines on the palm are richest in meaning.

Michelle Aroney and David Zeitlyn, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025
Earlier in December, Blanchard told PEOPLE the meaning behind their baby girl's name.

Brianne Tracy, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025