What is significant? Pronunciation and usage in English

significant means . Learn how to pronounce and use significant through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of significant

significantadjective

/sɪɡˈnɪfɪk(ə)nt/
Definition & pronunciation of significant

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "significant." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is divided into two syllables:

  • sign - pronounced like "sin" (as in, "sinful")
  • -i-fic-ant - this is where most people stumble.

2. Pronunciation Guide:

Here's a phonetic approximation (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA, which is the most accurate way to represent sounds):

/ˈsɪn.ɪ.fɪk.ən/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ˈsɪn: Stress is on this first syllable. Pronounce it like "sin."
  • ɪ: A short "i" sound, as in "bit."
  • fɪ: A quick "f" sound followed by a short "i" sound, like “fit.” It’s quite short and clipped.
  • k: A regular "k" sound as in "kite."
  • ən: A very short "un" sound, almost like "uhn." It’s a schwa sound (ə).

3. Putting it Together - How to say it as a word:

"Sin-i-fick-unt" (This is a common, simplified version, and while not perfect, it will be understood.)

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "sig-ni-fic-ant." Many people naturally drop the "i" sound in the middle.

  • The "f" is quick: Don't linger on the "f."

  • The "un" is very short: Don't stretch it out. It’s a schwa sound.

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some good examples online:

    • Google Search: "How to pronounce significant" - You'll find videos and audio clips from dictionaries.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/significant/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word in different accents.

To help me tailor the instructions even more, could you tell me:

  • What is your native language? (This can help me identify potential sounds you might find challenging.)

Usage and examples with the word significant in English

Let's break down how to use the word "significant" effectively in English. It's a versatile word, but it has several distinct meanings and nuances. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. Meaning 1: Important; Notable; Meaningful

  • Usage: This is the most common meaning. It describes something that has a real impact, consequence, or importance.
  • Examples:
    • "The research findings were significant and could lead to new treatments." (Important results)
    • "She made a significant contribution to the charity." (Notable contribution)
    • "His words were significant because they changed the direction of the meeting." (Meaningful words)
    • "There's a significant difference between the two versions of the report." (A noticeable difference)

2. Meaning 2: Statistically Significant (in Science & Statistics)

  • Usage: This is a specific meaning used in scientific contexts (like research, statistics, and data analysis). It means that the result of an experiment or study is likely not due to chance. It's a level of confidence in the result.
  • Explanation: Researchers often use statistical tests to determine if a result is "significant." A p-value is often used – a low p-value (typically less than 0.05) indicates that the result is statistically significant.
  • Examples:
    • "The drug showed a statistically significant reduction in blood pressure." (The reduction wasn't just random variation)
    • "The study found a significant correlation between exercise and mood." (A reliable link was observed)
    • "The data is not statistically significant, so we cannot conclude a strong relationship." (The data doesn't support a meaningful connection)

3. Meaning 3: Notable in Size, Amount, or Degree

  • Usage: Describes something that's large, high, or substantial.
  • Examples:
    • "There’s a significant amount of rain expected this week." (A large quantity)
    • "The company boasts a significant increase in profits." (A large increase)
    • "He’s a significant landowner in the region." (Large property holdings)

Key Considerations and Tips:

  • Context is Crucial: The meaning of "significant" always depends on the context.
  • Adjectives before "Significant": Often, you'll see "a significant" or "very significant." This emphasizes the importance.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to avoid repetition: important, crucial, vital, considerable, notable, substantial, meaningful.

Let's test your understanding!

Fill in the blank with the most appropriate meaning of "significant":

  1. "The detective noticed a _______ detail that helped crack the case." (a) Important (b) Statistically Significant (c) Large

  2. "The scientist repeated the experiment three times to ensure the results were _______." (a) Notable (b) Statistically Significant (c) Large

Answers:

  1. (a) Important
  2. (b) Statistically Significant

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain how "significant" is used in a specific field (like medicine or psychology)?
  • Provide some practice sentences you can try?

Synonyms for the word significant

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