Synonym Chooser

How does the noun importance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of importance are consequence, moment, significance, and weight. While all these words mean "a quality or aspect having great worth or significance," importance implies a value judgment of the superior worth or influence of something or someone.

a region with no cities of importance

When can consequence be used instead of importance?

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

The words moment and importance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, moment implies conspicuous or self-evident consequence.

a decision of great moment

When would significance be a good substitute for importance?

While the synonyms significance and importance are close in meaning, 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 weight a more appropriate choice than importance?

The synonyms weight and importance are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 importance Because California’s regulations are some of the most stringent in the nation, the importance of identifying regulatory oversights or permitting loopholes extends far beyond the state. Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 12 Sep. 2025 The matter is of vital importance to both Republicans and Democrats ahead of the 2026 elections, as the GOP fights to hold on to and expand its narrow majority in the House. Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025 In particular, the LEAP keys, as befitting their central importance, were given a row to themselves in an eye-catching shade of pink. Cameron Kaiser, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025 Despite challenges, Walters emphasizes the importance of adapting and experiencing new things. Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for importance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for importance
Noun
  • Many of these local gems are cozy relics that house unique pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgia, hold a coveted aesthetic or have historical significance.
    Olivia Lee, Charlotte Observer, 9 Sep. 2025
  • What was the significance of being able to share these memories with him?
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • While the European Union is readying a 19th package of sanctions, Hungary, France, Slovakia, Belgium and Spain maintain imports of Russian oil.
    Laura Kelly, The Hill, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Remanufacturing, reuse, and repair reduce exposure to volatile imports, unlock new revenue opportunities, and build trust.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The decisions ultimately have dire consequences for both the erstwhile pals and everyone else living on Inisherin.
    Hannah Kerns, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
  • But the then-21-year-old soon felt the consequences of his overnight fame.
    Safiyah Riddle, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • But the magnitude of the moment is unmistakable.
    Alec Lewis, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025
  • It still too soon to determine the exact location/magnitude of potential impacts from Kiko.
    Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Importance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/importance. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on importance

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