B2adverb2K

Significantly

UK /["/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəntli/"]/US /["/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəntli/"]/

Definition

in a way that is large or important enough to have an effect on something or to be noticed

In simple words: More than a little or in an important way.

Examples

  • The results of the study indicated that significantly more people preferred the new product over the old one.
  • She changed her diet, and her health improved significantly in just a few months.
  • The project was significantly delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • The investment will significantly boost the local economy.
  • There was a significantly high level of interest in the seminar last week.

Usage notes

Use 'significantly' in formal writing or speech to show importance. Avoid in casual conversation unless emphasizing a major point.

Grammar pattern

significantly + verb/adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'significant' as important — 'significantly' means really important!

Collocations

  • significantly increase
  • significantly improve
  • significantly different
  • significantly affect

Synonyms

  • considerably
  • substantially
  • noticeably
  • markedly
  • remarkably

Antonyms

  • insignificantly
  • slightly

Common mistakes

  • Using 'significantly' when 'slightly' is more appropriate in context.
  • Confusing 'significantly' with 'significative' which is not commonly used.
  • Placing it incorrectly in a sentence, for example, at the end instead of before the word it modifies.