significantly - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
significantly Word Meanings
- To a noticeable or substantial degree
- In a way that is statistically meaningful
- To a considerable extent; notably
significantly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
significantly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəntli/
US
/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəntli/
significantly Word Etymology
(a) Root decomposition: significant + -ly; (b) Historical origin: from Latin significare to signify, via Old French signifier, into English significant and the adverb significantly; (c) Memory image: imagine a large sign that literally signifies a meaning for a crowd, and a bright -ly ribbon wrapping around the sign to show how strongly it marks the meaning.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I steady my hand, place my finger on a slider, and move it a touch. I push again and watch the bars rise, the numbers glow significantly. I take a breath, adjust my posture, and keep watching to see if the change holds. When the screen confirms the difference, the feeling that this matters settles in.
Real Context
Significantly is an adverb used to indicate that something is noticeable or substantial, and to signal that a difference or effect is larger than usual. In statistics, it often means results are unlikely to be due to chance, i. e., statistically meaningful. In everyday use, you can point to a meaningful amount or degree, as in “Sales increased significantly after the campaign” or “The patient’s condition improved significantly.” It can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, but it usually stresses magnitude rather than mere occurrence. Avoid overusing it in casual writing, and ensure data or context supports the claim when you claim significance.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Place before the word it modifies (significantly higher, significantly improved).
- 2) Not a replacement for 'very'; choose precisely when the change is notable.
- 3) In reports and papers, link to data or P-values to show significance.
- 4) Use with care in casual speech; it can sound formal or analytical.
- 5) Pair with concrete numbers or effects to avoid vagueness.
Common Misconceptions
- It is an adjective, not an adverb.
- It only relates to numbers or statistics.
- Significant and significantly mean the same thing.
- It can be freely placed anywhere in the sentence.
- Using it guarantees that the result is important without data.
Thinking Differences
Native English speakers use -ly adverbs to modify verbs and adjectives precisely; learners often confuse significances in everyday talk with statistical significance, or place the adverb awkwardly. Emphasizing magnitude via numbers or study results helps clarity.
Learning Tips
- Compare with substitutes like substantially, considerably, and notably.
- Practice with real data: write sentences that include a P-value or effect size.
- Use in formal writing to discuss research results.
- Listen to academic talks or read articles to hear natural usage.
- Avoid piling up qualifiers; reserve for meaningful changes.
- Create sentences across tenses to reinforce flexibility.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'significantly'?
A.Slightly
B.Moderately
C.Randomly
D.Dramatically
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'significantly' used correctly?
A.She was significantly tired after running for 2 minutes.
B.The weather was significantly warm today.
C.He significantly went to the store for groceries.
D.The new regulations will significantly impact the environment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'significantly'?
A.Casually
B.Immediately
C.Slightly
D.Adequately
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'significantly'?
A.Drastically
B.Minimally
C.Substantially
D.Considerably
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you hear someone use the word 'significantly'?
A.Explaining a random occurrence
B.Talking about a small change in temperature
C.Describing the impact of a new law on the economy
D.Discussing a trivial event
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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