Definition of “Significantly”
The word “significantly” is an adverb that describes something done in a way that has a major or important effect. It is used to indicate a notable or considerable difference or degree in a situation or action. This term often emphasizes the magnitude of change or importance, often suggesting that the impact is worthy of attention.
For example:
- “The new policy significantly reduced the company’s expenses.”
- “She significantly improved her skills over the past year.”
Synonyms of “Significantly”
Here are some synonyms that can be used interchangeably with significantly, depending on the context:
Strongest Matches:
- Considerably: Emphasizes a large or noticeable amount.
- Example: “The weather has considerably changed in recent weeks.”
- Substantially: Indicates something is large in amount, degree, or importance.
- Example: “The project’s scope was substantially increased after the meeting.”
- Dramatically: Refers to a significant or striking effect, often with a visual or emotional impact.
- Example: “The stock market has dramatically dropped this month.”
- Markedly: Indicates something that is easily noticeable or evident.
- Example: “The results of the test were markedly different from last year.”
Strong Matches:
- Profoundly: Suggests a deep or significant impact.
- Example: “His decision to leave the company profoundly impacted his colleagues.”
- Extensively: Means over a large area or scope.
- Example: “The new software was extensively tested before its release.”
- Greatly: Signifies a high degree or amount.
- Example: “The team was greatly affected by the sudden changes in the project.”
Weak Matches:
- Noticeably: Implies that something can be observed or recognized, but without necessarily indicating a strong degree.
- Example: “She was noticeably tired after the long flight.”
- Mildly: Suggests a small or limited degree of significance.
- Example: “The error was mildly significant, not affecting the overall results.”
- Slightly: Refers to a small or minimal difference.
- Example: “The temperature increased slightly during the afternoon.”
Example Sentences Using “Significantly”
- The new marketing strategy has significantly boosted sales.
- This discovery could significantly alter the way we understand climate change.
- His contributions have significantly improved the quality of the project.
- The company significantly reduced its carbon footprint in the past year.
- The team’s performance significantly outperformed expectations.
Contextual Usage of “Significantly”
“Significantly” is most commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to underline a substantial impact or change. It is frequently applied in areas such as business, science, politics, education, and healthcare.
- In Business: Used to indicate a noticeable change in performance, revenue, or strategy.
- Example: “The merger significantly increased the company’s market share.”
- In Science and Research: Often used to describe changes or findings that have considerable implications.
- Example: “The data significantly support the hypothesis that climate change accelerates sea-level rise.”
- In Everyday Conversation: It can also be used in casual settings to convey important changes or effects.
- Example: “Her lifestyle has significantly improved since she started working out.”
Related Words to “Significantly”
- Impactful: Denoting an action or result that has a significant or powerful effect.
- Noteworthy: Worth attention or consideration due to its significance.
- Consequence: The result or effect of an action, often significant in nature.
- Influential: Having great impact or importance in shaping events or decisions.
- Critical: Of great importance, especially when something is decisive or essential.
Additional Relevant Information
The adverb “significantly” is commonly used when discussing quantitative data or changes that are substantial. It’s a key term in both everyday speech and technical writing, often paired with verbs like “improve,” “change,” “reduce,” “increase,” and “outperform.” It is a more formal or academic alternative to other less powerful words like “a lot” or “much.”
While “significantly” indicates importance, it’s essential to note that the word doesn’t quantify how much change has occurred; instead, it focuses on the level of effect. Therefore, additional context or quantifiers may be necessary for precision.
Common Phrases:
- Significantly different: Refers to something that has a notable difference.
- Example: “The two versions of the software are significantly different in functionality.”
- Significantly higher/lower: Used to compare a large difference in quantities.
- Example: “The new model is significantly higher in price.”
Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. The information provided is accurate as of the knowledge cutoff in 2023. For further details or updates, it is always recommended to consult authoritative sources or consult a professional when necessary. The usage of “significantly” may vary depending on context and region.
