What is important? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of important

importantadjective

/ɪmˈpɔːtnt/
Definition & pronunciation of important

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

1. The Core Sound:

  • "im" – This is pronounced like "im" in "impotent" or "image." It's a short, unstressed "uh" sound.
  • "port" – This is where most people stumble. It’s pronounced like "port" in "report." But it’s a bit different than the British pronunciation.
  • "ant" – This is pronounced like "ant" as in "ant hill."

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is roughly: "im-PORT-uhnt"

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • "im" - /ɪm/ (like the "i" in "bit")
  • "port" - /pɔːrt/ (This is the key! It’s a broader "ah" sound for the "or," almost like the “or” in “caught”. It’s not like the "port" in “Portugal.”)
  • "ant" - /ænt/ (like the “a” in “cat”)
  • "uh" - (a schwa sound - the neutral vowel sound, like in "about")

3. Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable (“PORT”). That's why it's "im-PORT-uhnt," not "im-por-tant."
  • The “Port” Sound: Really listen to native speakers. The "port" sound in "important" is broader than the "or" in many words. It’s closer to an "ah" sound.
  • Listen and Repeat: The best way to learn is to hear it and imitate. You can find many examples on:
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/important/ (This site lets you hear pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.)
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce important" on YouTube – you'll find numerous audio and video examples.

Resources for Pronunciation:

To help me give you even more specific guidance, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (Different regions have slightly different pronunciations.)

Usage and examples with the word important in English

Let's break down how to use the word "important" effectively in English. It's a really common word, but it can be tricky to use correctly and with nuance.

1. Basic Usage - Signifying Significance:

  • Most Common Usage: "Important" simply means something is significant, noteworthy, or has a considerable impact.

    • Example: “It’s important to study for your exams.” (Studying is a vital activity)
    • Example: "This is an important decision." (The decision has a big consequence)
    • Example: “She’s an important figure in the community.” (She holds a respected position)

2. Degrees of Importance – Adding Adjectives:

To be more specific, you can combine "important" with adjectives to show varying levels of significance:

  • Very Important: “This project is extremely important.”
  • Highly Important: “Maintaining good health is highly important.”
  • Quite Important: “Having a good education is quite important.”
  • Somewhat Important: "Being punctual is somewhat important in a professional setting." (Less critical than other things)
  • Moderately Important: "A basic understanding of math is moderately important for everyday life."

3. Using "Important" as an Adjective (Describing Things):

  • Describing People: “He’s an important scientist.” (Referring to his position or impact)
  • Describing Concepts/Ideas: “Honesty is an important value.” (A core principle)
  • Describing Events/Situations: “The meeting was important for planning the future.” (It had a significant purpose)

4. Using "Important" as an Adverb (Modifying Verbs - Less Common):

This usage is less frequent, and often sounds a bit formal. It means "seriously" or "really."

  • Example: “It’s important to remember this.” (Meaning: It’s really important to remember this.)
  • Example: "You should important consider your options." (Meaning: You should seriously consider your options.) – This is a bit stiff, and "carefully consider" is usually better.

5. Phrases Using "Important":

  • Important to note: Used to introduce a key piece of information. “Important to note that the deadline has been extended.”
  • Important consideration: Something that needs to be thought about carefully. “Safety is an important consideration when driving.”
  • Of great importance: "The preservation of wildlife is of great importance."
  • Important aspect: "Communication is an important aspect of any relationship."

6. Don't Overuse It!

While "important" is useful, it's a relatively vague word. Try to be more specific when possible. Instead of saying "That's important," consider:

  • “That’s crucial.”
  • “That’s essential.”
  • “That’s vital.”
  • “That’s key.”
  • "That’s fundamental."
  • "That’s significant."

Tips for Choosing the Right Word:

  • Consider the context: What exactly are you trying to convey?
  • Think about the intensity: How much significance does something have?
  • Look for stronger synonyms: Don't just default to "important" when other words might fit better.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "important" in? (e.g., writing an essay, a conversation, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word important

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