Significance
sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəns
Definitions
2 meaningsThe quality of being important or worthy of attention; meaning.
sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəns
The quality of being worthy of attention; importance.
The significance of this discovery in medical research is immense.
💡 Simply: Imagine finding something really cool, like a hidden treasure or learning an awesome new fact. The significance is how important or interesting that thing is. It's what makes it matter!
👶 For kids: When something is super important or special, we say it has significance.
More Examples
The historical significance of the document was immediately recognized by scholars.
The judge emphasized the significance of the witness's testimony.
How It's Used
"The significance of the discovery was immediately apparent."
"The historical significance of the event cannot be overstated."
"The statistical significance of the results was confirmed."
The meaning, import, or message; the meaning conveyed or implied.
sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəns
The meaning or message that is conveyed.
He missed the significance of her silent tears.
💡 Simply: If a friend gives you a gift, the significance of the gift is what it *means*—like, are they trying to say 'I'm thinking of you' or 'Thank you?'
👶 For kids: What something means or what a message is trying to tell you.
More Examples
The poem's significance lies in its subtle symbolism.
The artist hoped the audience would grasp the significance of the installation.
How It's Used
"The significance of the gesture was lost on him."
"The story's significance lies in its exploration of human nature."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
of significance
Important or worthy of attention.
"The finding is of great significance to the research team."
From Latin significāns, present participle of significāre 'to signify'. The word entered English in the 15th century.
The word's usage evolved in the 17th and 18th centuries to encompass both importance and the conveying of meaning, reflecting a growing emphasis on reasoning and interpretation.
Memory tip
Think of the 'sign' you see on the road – what does it 'signify'? Its importance!
Word Origin
"to signify, mean"