Definition of Important
Quick Meaning of Important
Mattering a lot or having a strong effect on something.
Detailed Definition of Important
Having great significance, weight, or consequence.
How to Pronounce Important
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: The stress is on the second syllable: im-POR-tant. The final syllable is very short.
Watch out: Final syllable often swallowed and sounds like 'im-POR-ent' in fast speech.
Origin and Etymology of Important
From Latin importare, meaning to bring in or be of consequence.
How to Use Important in a Sentence
Each example shows “important” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Sleep is important for health and well-being.”
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“It is important to arrive on time for interviews.”
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“The conference revealed important findings about climate trends.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Important
Common Synonyms for Important
Smart Synonyms for Important — When to Use Each
- crucial
- when something is critical for success
- essential
- when something cannot be done without
Antonyms of Important
Common Collocations with Important
These phrases pair with “important” in everyday English:
- very important
- more important
- most important
- important decision
- important role
Common Mistakes When Using Important
Even fluent speakers slip up with “important”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The results was important for analysis.
- ✓ Correct: The results were important for analysis.
- Why: Results is plural, so it requires plural verb 'were,' not singular 'was.'
- ✗ Wrong: Learn the language is important.
- ✓ Correct: Learning the language is important.
- Why: Use gerund (learning) as the subject of the sentence, not the base verb.
Other Forms of Important
- Noun: importance
- Adjective: important
- Adverb: importantly
Frequently Asked Questions About Important
What is the meaning of "Important"?
Mattering a lot or having a strong effect on something.
How do you pronounce "Important"?
The IPA is /ɪmˈpɔːrtənt/. The stress is on the second syllable: im-POR-tant. The final syllable is very short.
What part of speech is "Important"?
"Important" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Important"?
Common synonyms include significant, crucial, essential.
How do you use "Important" in a sentence?
For example: "Sleep is important for health and well-being."