Importantly

/ɪmˈpɔːtəntli/

adverbBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

1

In a way that is significant or important; used to introduce the most significant point in a discussion.

/ɪmˈpɔːtəntli/

adverbneutralBeginner
General

In a way that is important

Importantly, remember to turn off the lights when you leave.

💡 Simply: When you say something is done 'importantly', it means it's the most important thing to remember or the main point. Like, "Importantly, don't forget to feed the cat!"

👶 For kids: When something is done 'importantly', it means it's the most important thing. Like, "Importantly, we need to go to school today!"

More Examples

2

He paused and, importantly, emphasized his main point.

3

The director of the company stated, importantly, that they need to review the financial statements before investing.

How It's Used

General

"Importantly, we need to finish this project by Friday."

Business

"Importantly, the budget must be approved before the end of the quarter."

Idioms & expressions

most importantly

Used to introduce the most important point or factor.

"Most importantly, we must ensure the safety of our customers."

and more importantly

Used to introduce a point that is even more important than the previous one.

"The project is behind schedule, and more importantly, the budget has been exceeded."

From 'important' + '-ly'. 'Important' comes from Old French 'importan' (present participle of 'importer' meaning 'to be of importance') and ultimately from Latin 'importare' (to bring in, to be of significance). The suffix '-ly' denotes manner.

The adverb 'importantly' has been used since the 17th century, emerging shortly after the adjective 'important'. It became common in written and spoken language.

Memory tip

Think of 'important' + '-ly'. This word tells us 'how' something significant is done.

importantlyly

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written