The word “significant” is often used in English to describe something important, meaningful, or large in amount. You will see it in academic writing, business reports, news articles, and everyday conversation. But if you use the same word too often, your speaking and writing can sound repetitive. Luckily, English has many natural synonyms for “significant.”
This guide shows you the best alternatives, with simple meanings and examples that are perfect for English learners.
What Does “Significant” Mean?
Significant means:
- important
- meaningful
- large or noticeable
- having an effect or impact
Example: There was a significant increase in sales.
List of Synonyms for “Significant”
- Appreciable
- Cardinal
- Chief
- Consequential
- Considerable
- Crucial
- Dominant
- Foremost
- Glaring
- Important
- Impressive
- Key
- Main
- Major
- Marked
- Memorable
- Momentous
- Notable
- Noteworthy
- Outstanding
- Overriding
- Predominant
- Principal
- Remarkable
- Striking
- Unforgettable
- Vital
Other Ways to Say “Significant”
Simple & Common Synonyms for “Significant”
These are easy words you can use in everyday English.
1. Important
-
This is an important decision.
2. Major
Meaning: big or important
-
This is a major problem for the team.
3. Big (informal)
-
This is a big change for the company.
4. Serious
-
Pollution is a serious issue today.
5. Considerable
Meaning: large in amount
-
They spent a considerable amount of money.
Stronger Synonyms (High Impact)
These words show something very meaningful or powerful.
6. Meaningful
-
Their conversation was very meaningful.
7. Remarkable
Meaning: impressive or surprising
-
She made remarkable progress.
8. Notable
Meaning: worth attention
-
There was a notable improvement.
9. Substantial
Meaning: large or major
-
The company made a substantial profit.
10. Dramatic
Meaning: sudden and noticeable
-
Prices saw a dramatic rise last year.
Academic & Formal Synonyms for “Significant”
These are often used in essays, research papers, or professional writing.
11. Critical
Meaning: extremely important
-
It is critical to follow safety rules.
12. Key
Meaning: essential
-
This is a key factor in the study.
13. Influential
Meaning: having power to change things
-
She is an influential leader.
14. Weighty
Meaning: serious or important
-
This is a weighty matter.
15. Momentous
Meaning: historically important
-
It was a momentous achievement.
Conversational & Natural Alternatives
These sound natural and are perfect for everyday speaking.
16. Huge
-
This is a huge win for the team.
17. High-impact
-
It was a high-impact decision.
18. Stands out (phrase)
-
Her performance really stands out.
19. Worth mentioning
-
His improvement is worth mentioning.
20. Really important
-
It’s really important to arrive on time.