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significance
/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəns/
importance or meaning
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated.
This discovery is extremely important.
general
The quality of being important or having a meaningful effect
The significance of the treaty was felt across the region.
The treaty had a major impact on the region.
Researchers are still debating the significance of the findings.
The importance of the research results is still being discussed.
Often used to describe the importance of events, discoveries, or decisions.
Collocations
of great significancevery importanthistorical significanceimportance in historycultural significanceimportance in culture
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'significance' in formal writing or discussions to emphasize importance. In casual speech, 'importance' or 'meaning' may be more natural.
Gold Rule
Avoid Redundancy
Do not use 'significant significance'—it is redundant. Instead, use 'great significance' or 'major importance'.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'significance,' from Latin 'significare' (to signify), from 'signum' (sign) + 'facere' (to make).
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or academic contexts to emphasize the importance of something.
Word Breakdown
sign
a symbol or indication
root-ific
to make or do
suffix-ance
quality or state of
suffixEnglish Dictionary