What does "importance" mean?

1. (value or significance) the quality of being important or having a big effect on something. 2. (status or rank) a person's high position or power in society.

How do you use "importance"?

Often follows the preposition 'of' in formal structures like 'of great importance'.

Is it correct to say "This problem has a big importance."?

No — say "This problem is of great importance.". In formal English, we often use 'of' + 'importance' rather than 'has' + 'importance'.

importance

US //ˌɪmˈpɔɹtəns// UK //ɪmpˈɔːtəns// im·por·tance

1 value or significance (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the quality of being important or having a big effect on something.

the quality of being significant, valuable, or having a substantial impact on a situation or outcome.

Example

The teacher explained the importance of reading every day to improve your vocabulary.

Example

The report highlights the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing the global climate crisis over the next decade.

Usage

Often follows the preposition 'of' in formal structures like 'of great importance'.
- insignificance
- triviality
Pitfall

This problem has a big importance.

This problem is of great importance.

In formal English, we often use 'of' + 'importance' rather than 'has' + 'importance'.
2 status or rank (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

a person's high position or power in society.

the state of having high social standing, prestige, or authority.

Example

He was a man of great importance in the local government.

Example

Despite her family's historical importance in the region, she preferred to live a quiet life away from the public eye.

Teacher's tip

When referring to people, this sense can sometimes sound slightly old-fashioned or very formal.
- lowliness

Origin

From Middle English importaunce, from Middle French importance, from Medieval Latin importantia. By surface analysis, import (“to be important”) + -ance.