Another Word for Significant: 12 Synonyms with Examples
“Significant” means important enough to notice or to have an effect. In science writing it often means statistically significant, so pick a synonym when you do not mean that.
As an adjective: large or important enough to have an effect
As an adjective: having a special meaning
- meaningful
- telling
- revealing
- symbolic
- suggestive
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- considerable
- About size or amount rather than importance: “considerable cost”.
- substantial
- Large and solid; it often suggests real, measurable weight.
- notable
- Worth noticing or mentioning, not necessarily large.
- marked
- Clearly noticeable, especially of a change or difference.
- telling
- Revealing something important, often unintentionally.
Example sentences
- considerable: The repairs will take a considerable amount of time.
- substantial: The charity received a substantial donation from a local firm.
- notable: One notable exception was the art department.
- marked: There has been a marked improvement in her writing.
- telling: It was telling that no one asked a single question.
Opposite of significant
- insignificant
- minor
- trivial
- negligible
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “significant”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: meaning, pregnant
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “significant”?
The most useful alternatives are “important”, “considerable”, “substantial”, “major”, “notable”. For the main sense (large or important enough to have an effect), “important” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “considerable” and “substantial”?
considerable: About size or amount rather than importance: “considerable cost”. substantial: Large and solid; it often suggests real, measurable weight.
What is the opposite of “significant”?
Common antonyms are “insignificant”, “minor”, “trivial”, “negligible”.