Significant Meaning
Significant Definition & Usage
Of considerable importance or value; having a notable effect or impact.
Examples
- "The discovery of the new planet is a significant breakthrough in astronomy."
- "She made a significant contribution to the team’s success."
- "The significant difference in price between the two products made me reconsider my choice."
- "His speech had a significant impact on the audience, changing their perspective on the issue."
- "It was a significant event in the history of the company, marking its 50th anniversary."
Having a statistically significant result, often used in scientific research to indicate a result that is unlikely to be due to chance.
Examples
- "The test results showed a significant improvement in the patients' conditions after treatment."
- "There was no significant difference between the control group and the experimental group."
- "The change in temperature was statistically significant, suggesting a potential link to climate change."
- "The study found a significant correlation between exercise and mental health."
- "Our data suggests that the new drug has a significant effect on reducing cholesterol levels."
Having a deep or emotional significance, often relating to personal feelings or relationships.
Examples
- "The letter from her grandmother was of significant emotional value to her."
- "The wedding was a significant moment in their lives, filled with joy and anticipation."
- "This old photograph holds significant meaning to me, reminding me of my childhood."
- "His words had a significant emotional impact on her, making her feel understood."
- "The anniversary dinner was significant because it marked 20 years of their marriage."
Cultural Context
The word 'significant' comes from the Latin 'significare,' meaning 'to indicate' or 'to signify.' Over time, its meaning has expanded to refer to things of importance in a variety of contexts, including personal, scientific, and statistical settings.
The Turning Point
Story
The Turning Point
On a quiet Sunday morning, Sarah stood in front of the old oak tree in her backyard, holding an envelope. It was a letter from her late grandmother, one she had almost forgotten about. When she had first opened the envelope, she had expected a simple note, a few words of wisdom, perhaps a reminder of her childhood. But as her eyes scanned the letter, she realized it was more than that. The words on the page were significant, far more than just sentimental. They were a reflection of everything her grandmother had wanted her to understand, everything she had lived for. It was significant because it marked a moment Sarah had always needed — a turning point in her life. Her grandmother had spoken about the importance of family, of staying grounded even when life became overwhelming. 'In times of doubt,' her grandmother had written, 'remember that the smallest decisions have the most significant impact.' Sarah folded the letter carefully, feeling a deep sense of connection to the past. The words held significant meaning, not just for the moment, but for the rest of her life. They reminded her that sometimes, the most significant events are the quiet ones, the ones that don't announce themselves with fanfare, but are felt deeply in your heart. As Sarah sat on the old wooden bench under the oak tree, she thought back to her childhood — to the days when her grandmother would sit by her side, telling stories of their ancestors. Those moments, though simple, had shaped her worldview. Now, as an adult, she understood the significance of those early lessons. They had prepared her for the challenges she faced in the present. Her phone buzzed, pulling her out of her reverie. It was a message from her best friend, Mark, asking about the research they had been working on together. Sarah had been struggling with some of the data, but now, with her grandmother’s wisdom still fresh in her mind, she felt a renewed sense of clarity. The data was significant, not because it had dramatic results, but because it could potentially shape future decisions. The research could have a significant impact on the community they were studying, helping them understand patterns that had gone unnoticed for decades. The day had started with a simple letter, but it had turned into a reflection on the true nature of significance — in both personal and professional life. Sarah knew that from now on, she would approach every challenge, every decision, with a deeper understanding of the true weight of significance.