"Important" is an adjective highlighting significance or value. This guide lists synonyms, sorted by strength and tone, with examples. It helps you stress key points clearly.
Synonyms for Important (Significance or Value)
"Important" marks something that matters or has influence. Synonyms vary by intensity and formality, with examples to show their use.
Strongest Matches
These synonyms emphasize high significance or critical value.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Important" | Example with Synonym |
| Crucial | Essential | This decision is important. | This decision is crucial. |
| Vital | Absolutely necessary | Her role was important. | Her role was vital. |
| Critical | Highly significant | The meeting was important. | The meeting was critical. |
| Essential | Fundamentally needed | The data is important. | The data is essential. |
These stress urgency. "Crucial" and "vital" suggest necessity, while "critical" and "essential" highlight indispensable value.
Strong Matches
These synonyms indicate notable significance, less intense than the strongest.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Important" | Example with Synonym |
| Significant | Meaningful | The discovery was important. | The discovery was significant. |
| Key | Central to success | His input was important. | His input was key. |
| Major | Large in impact | The issue was important. | The issue was major. |
| Pivotal | Turning point | The event was important. | The event was pivotal. |
These are balanced. "Significant" and "major" are broad, while "key" and "pivotal" focus on central roles.
Weaker Matches
These synonyms suggest moderate or relative significance.
| Synonym | Definition | Example with "Important" | Example with Synonym |
| Notable | Worth noticing | The change was important. | The change was notable. |
| Relevant | Connected to the matter | The fact was important. | The fact was relevant. |
| Worthwhile | Worth the effort | The task was important. | The task was worthwhile. |
These are milder. "Notable" and "relevant" are specific, while "worthwhile" suggests value.
Less Common Synonyms
These rare synonyms add variety, often for formal or literary contexts.
- Momentous: Highly significant (formal).
Example: The speech was important. → The speech was momentous. - Portentous: Ominously significant (literary).
Example: The warning was important. → The warning was portentous.
These are distinctive. "Momentous" suits grand events, while "portentous" adds a serious tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does “important” differ from significant?
"Important" emphasizes value or priority, while "significant" often implies measurable impact. Use "important" for urgency and "significant" for notable effects.
Can I use “important” for small details?
Yes, but synonyms like "relevant" or "notable" are better for minor details. They suggest connection or noticeability without implying critical value.
What’s a good synonym for emphasizing urgency?
"Crucial" or "vital" are ideal for urgent situations. They convey that something is essential and can’t be overlooked, perfect for high-stakes contexts.
When should I use “pivotal” in writing?
Use "pivotal" for turning points, like “a pivotal moment.” It’s great for describing events or decisions that change outcomes significantly.
How do synonyms for “important” improve presentations?
Words like "critical" or "key" grab attention and clarify priorities. They make your points sound compelling, helping you persuade or inform effectively.
Conclusion
Synonyms for "important" help you highlight significance with clarity. Choose based on context for impactful expression. This guide supports precise and engaging communication.