momentous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
momentous Word Meanings
- of great importance or significance
- having consequences that are very influential
- noteworthy moments that can change the course of events
momentous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
momentous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/məˈmɛn.təs/
US
/moʊˈmɛn.təs/
momentous Word Etymology
Momentous = moment + -ous (full of, having); Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a key moment in life where everything changes, like standing at a crossroads and having to choose a path that will shape your future.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Momentous means very important or significant, especially when the event or decision will have long-lasting effects. It describes moments that stand out because they shift the direction of a person’s life, a company, or history. The word carries a weightier, more formal tone than ordinary synonyms like important or significant; it is common in speeches, histories, and journalism. Momentous events invite reflection about cause and effect, and they often pair with nouns such as decision, occasion, day, or turning point. Learners should use it carefully, reserving it for genuinely consequential matters rather than everyday happenings. In everyday speech you might say 'this is important', but 'momentous' signals a dramatic turning point.
Usage Reminders
- Use for major turning points; not for everyday events.
- Pair with nouns like decision, event, or day.
- Tends to be formal or literary, avoid in casual speech.
- Conveys long-term impact, not just importance.
- Often appears with adjectives like historic or epoch-making.
- Check that the context truly implies a turning point rather than just being noteworthy.
Common Misconceptions
- It is a direct synonym of 'important' in all contexts.
- It can describe any noteworthy event, big or small.
- It is a casual, everyday word.
- It only describes positive events or outcomes.
- It refers to a moment that happens in the present, not the past or future.
Thinking Differences
Momentous in English signals a drama-laden turning point; learners should note the heavier, formal tone and the strong causal implication that the event changes outcomes long-term.
Learning Tips
- Compare with 'important', 'significant', and 'historic' to sense nuance.
- Use with nouns like decision, event, day, occasion, turning point.
- Reserve for formal or literary contexts; avoid casual speech.
- Check the long-term impact before choosing momentous.
- Replace with 'momentous' when you want a weightier tone in writing.
- Study historical or journalistic examples to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'momentous'?
A.Silly
B.Delicious
C.Broken
D.Important
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'momentous' correctly?
A.I ate a momentous sandwich for lunch.
B.Today was a momentous day as we graduated.
C.He told a momentous joke that made everyone laugh.
D.The broken clock rang at a momentous time.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'momentous'?
A.Trivial
B.Crucial
C.Insignificant
D.Futile
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'momentous'?
A.Unimportant
B.Trivial
C.Negligible
D.Meaningful
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you describe an event as 'momentous'?
A.Graduating from college
B.Brushing teeth
C.Eating breakfast
D.Watching TV
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