Understanding how to use the word “significantly” correctly can greatly enhance your writing and speaking skills. This adverb adds precision and impact to your statements, allowing you to express the degree or importance of a particular change, difference, or effect.
This guide is designed to provide a thorough understanding of “significantly,” covering its definition, usage, common mistakes, and practical exercises. Whether you are an English language learner, a student, or a professional, this article will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to use “significantly” effectively in various contexts.
By mastering the nuances of “significantly,” you’ll be able to communicate more effectively, adding depth and clarity to your expressions. This guide explores various contexts, from academic writing to everyday conversation, ensuring you understand how to use this powerful word accurately and appropriately.
Table of Contents
- Definition of “Significantly”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Usage
- Examples of “Significantly” in Sentences
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition of “Significantly”
“Significantly” is an adverb that means “in a way that is easily noticed or large enough to affect a situation or person.” It is derived from the adjective “significant,” which means important or consequential. The adverb “significantly” is used to emphasize the degree or extent to which something is important, noticeable, or consequential.
It often implies that the effect or change is substantial and worthy of attention.
The word adds weight to a statement, suggesting that the described change or difference is not merely incidental but has a real impact. It’s a versatile word, applicable in various contexts, including academic writing, professional reports, and everyday conversations.
Structural Breakdown
The word “significantly” is formed by adding the suffix “-ly” to the adjective “significant.” This suffix transforms the adjective into an adverb, which modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Understanding this structure helps in recognizing how “significantly” functions within a sentence.
The base word, “significant,” comes from the Latin word “significans,” meaning “pointing out” or “indicating.” The suffix “-ly” is a common adverbial suffix in English. Therefore, “significantly” retains the sense of indicating importance or consequence, but now as a modifier within the sentence.
Types of Usage
“Significantly” can be used in several ways to add emphasis and precision to your writing. Here are some common types of usage:
Describing Degree or Extent
In this context, “significantly” is used to indicate the degree to which something has changed or increased. It suggests a noticeable and substantial alteration.
Indicating Importance or Consequence
Here, “significantly” emphasizes the importance or consequence of an event, action, or decision. It highlights that the matter is not trivial but carries weight.
Highlighting Statistical Significance
In statistical analysis, “significantly” indicates that the results of a study are unlikely to have occurred by chance. It suggests that there is a real effect or relationship between the variables being studied.
Examples of “Significantly” in Sentences
To better understand how “significantly” is used, let’s look at some examples organized by the types of usage.
Examples Describing Degree
The following table provides examples of “significantly” used to describe the degree or extent of a change. These examples illustrate how the word adds emphasis to the magnitude of the alteration.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The temperature dropped significantly overnight. | Indicates a considerable decrease in temperature. |
| The company’s profits increased significantly this quarter. | Shows a substantial rise in the company’s earnings. |
| Her health improved significantly after the surgery. | Highlights a noticeable betterment in her well-being. |
| The price of gasoline has risen significantly in the last month. | Indicates a marked increase in the cost of gasoline. |
| The number of students attending the workshop increased significantly. | Shows a noteworthy increase in workshop attendance. |
| The noise level in the city has decreased significantly since the new regulations. | Highlights a considerable reduction in urban noise. |
| The quality of the product improved significantly after the redesign. | Indicates a substantial enhancement in product quality. |
| The amount of rainfall has decreased significantly this year. | Shows a notable reduction in rainfall. |
| His performance at work improved significantly after the training. | Highlights a marked improvement in his work performance. |
| The traffic congestion has increased significantly during peak hours. | Indicates a substantial rise in traffic congestion. |
| The athlete’s speed increased significantly after months of training. | Shows a considerable improvement in the athlete’s speed. |
| The cost of living has risen significantly in major cities. | Indicates a notable increase in the expenses of living. |
| The crime rate has decreased significantly in the neighborhood. | Highlights a substantial reduction in criminal activities. |
| The unemployment rate dropped significantly last quarter. | Shows a considerable decrease in the percentage of unemployed people. |
| The company’s market share increased significantly after the new product launch. | Indicates a substantial rise in the company’s share of the market. |
| The number of tourists visiting the region has increased significantly. | Highlights a notable increase in the count of visiting tourists. |
| The level of pollution has decreased significantly due to environmental regulations. | Shows a considerable reduction in pollution levels. |
| The patient’s condition deteriorated significantly after the infection. | Indicates a substantial worsening of the patient’s health. |
| The value of the property has increased significantly over the past decade. | Highlights a notable rise in the property’s worth. |
| The demand for electric vehicles has increased significantly in recent years. | Shows a considerable increase in the need for electric cars. |
| The amount of waste produced has decreased significantly due to recycling efforts. | Indicates a substantial reduction in the quantity of waste. |
| The efficiency of the machinery improved significantly after the upgrade. | Highlights a marked improvement in the efficiency of the machinery. |
| The number of complaints received decreased significantly after the customer service training. | Shows a considerable reduction in the number of received complaints. |
| The waiting time for appointments has decreased significantly since the new system was implemented. | Indicates a substantial reduction in the duration of waiting for appointments. |
Examples Indicating Importance
The following table provides examples of “significantly” used to emphasize the importance or consequence of an event, action, or decision. These examples illustrate how the word can highlight the weight of a particular matter.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The discovery of the new drug will significantly impact the treatment of cancer. | Indicates the profound effect the drug will have on cancer treatment. |
| The new policy will significantly affect the company’s operations. | Shows that the policy will have a considerable impact on how the company functions. |
| His contribution significantly improved the project’s outcome. | Highlights the importance of his input to the project’s success. |
| The judge’s decision will significantly influence future legal cases. | Indicates the considerable impact the ruling will have on subsequent cases. |
| The economic crisis significantly altered the course of the country’s development. | Shows that the crisis brought about major changes in the country’s progress. |
| The new technology will significantly enhance the efficiency of the production process. | Highlights the substantial improvement in efficiency due to the new technology. |
| The environmental regulations will significantly reduce pollution levels. | Indicates the considerable reduction in pollution due to the regulations. |
| Her research significantly advanced the field of neuroscience. | Shows that her research made a major contribution to neuroscience. |
| The government’s investment will significantly boost the economy. | Highlights the substantial positive impact on the economy from the investment. |
| The changes to the curriculum will significantly improve students’ learning outcomes. | Indicates the considerable improvement in student results due to the curriculum changes. |
| The construction of the new highway will significantly reduce travel time. | Shows that the highway will have a major impact on decreasing travel duration. |
| The implementation of the new software will significantly streamline the workflow. | Highlights the substantial improvement in workflow efficiency due to the software. |
| The discovery of the ancient artifact significantly changed our understanding of history. | Indicates the profound impact the artifact had on historical understanding. |
| The merger of the two companies will significantly increase their market power. | Shows that the merger will result in a major increase in their control of the market. |
| The new educational program will significantly improve literacy rates. | Highlights the substantial improvement in literacy due to the program. |
| The development of renewable energy sources will significantly reduce carbon emissions. | Indicates the considerable reduction in carbon emissions due to renewables. |
| The implementation of the new security measures will significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks. | Shows that the security measures will have a major impact on decreasing cyber attack risk. |
| The establishment of the wildlife reserve will significantly protect endangered species. | Highlights the substantial protection provided to endangered species by the reserve. |
| The advancements in medical technology will significantly extend human lifespan. | Indicates the profound impact medical technology will have on increasing longevity. |
| The resolution of the conflict will significantly improve international relations. | Shows that the resolution will have a major impact on improving global relationships. |
| The implementation of the new tax policy will significantly affect small businesses. | Highlights the substantial impact on small businesses due to the policy. |
| The introduction of artificial intelligence will significantly transform various industries. | Indicates the profound impact AI will have on changing industries. |
| The discovery of new water sources will significantly alleviate water scarcity in the region. | Shows that the discovery will have a major impact on reducing water scarcity. |
| The construction of the new hospital will significantly improve healthcare access for the community. | Highlights the substantial improvement in healthcare access due to the hospital. |
Examples Highlighting Statistical Significance
In statistical contexts, “significantly” indicates that the results are unlikely to have occurred by chance. The following table provides examples of this usage.
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The study found that the new drug significantly reduced blood pressure compared to the placebo. | Indicates that the reduction in blood pressure was statistically significant. |
| The experiment showed a significantly higher success rate for the treatment group. | Highlights that the treatment group had a statistically significant improvement. |
| The data revealed a significantly lower incidence of the disease in vaccinated individuals. | Shows that vaccination had a statistically significant protective effect. |
| The survey results indicated a significantly different opinion between the two groups. | Highlights that the difference in opinion was statistically significant. |
| The analysis showed that the correlation between the two variables was not significantly different from zero. | Indicates that the correlation was not statistically significant. |
| The research demonstrated a significantly positive relationship between exercise and mental health. | Shows that exercise had a statistically significant positive effect on mental health. |
| The clinical trial found that the side effects were not significantly more common in the treatment group. | Indicates that the side effects were not statistically significantly different. |
| The study showed that the new teaching method significantly improved student test scores. | Highlights that the teaching method had a statistically significant positive impact. |
| The data analysis indicated a significantly higher risk of complications for elderly patients. | Shows that elderly patients had a statistically significant higher risk. |
| The experiment found no significantly different results between the control and experimental groups. | Indicates that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. |
| The statistical analysis showed that the increase in sales was significantly correlated with the marketing campaign. | Highlights a statistically significant relationship between the campaign and sales increase. |
| The study revealed that the consumption of processed foods was significantly associated with obesity. | Shows a statistically significant correlation between processed foods and obesity. |
| The research indicated a significantly lower rate of relapse among patients who received cognitive behavioral therapy. | Highlights a statistically significant reduction in relapse due to the therapy. |
| The experiment showed that the new fertilizer significantly increased crop yield. | Indicates a statistically significant improvement in crop yield. |
| The data analysis revealed that the level of air pollution was significantly higher in urban areas. | Shows a statistically significant difference in pollution levels between urban and rural areas. |
| The study found that the use of social media was significantly correlated with increased anxiety levels. | Highlights a statistically significant relationship between social media and anxiety. |
| The research indicated a significantly higher survival rate for patients who underwent early intervention. | Shows a statistically significant improvement in survival due to early intervention. |
| The statistical analysis showed that the new drug significantly reduced the risk of heart attack. | Highlights a statistically significant reduction in heart attack risk. |
| The study revealed that the implementation of the new policy significantly reduced crime rates. | Shows a statistically significant reduction in crime due to the policy. |
| The data analysis indicated a significantly lower incidence of diabetes among participants who followed a healthy diet. | Highlights a statistically significant reduction in diabetes incidence due to the diet. |
| The experiment showed that the new training program significantly improved employee productivity. | Indicates a statistically significant improvement in employee productivity. |
| The study found that the use of renewable energy sources significantly reduced carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels. | Highlights a statistically significant reduction in carbon emissions. |
| The research indicated a significantly higher level of customer satisfaction among users of the new app. | Shows a statistically significant improvement in satisfaction. |
| The statistical analysis showed that the new marketing strategy significantly increased brand awareness. | Highlights a statistically significant increase in brand awareness. |
Usage Rules
To use “significantly” correctly, it’s important to understand the rules that govern its usage. These rules include placement in a sentence, common collocations, and differences between formal and informal usage.
Placement in a Sentence
“Significantly” can be placed in different positions within a sentence, depending on what you want to emphasize. It is commonly placed before the verb it modifies, but it can also be placed at the beginning or end of the sentence for emphasis.
However, placing it before the verb is generally preferred for clarity.
For example:
- Correct: The temperature significantly dropped overnight.
- Also Correct: Significantly, the temperature dropped overnight.
- Also Correct: The temperature dropped overnight significantly. (Less common, but acceptable)
Common Collocations
“Significantly” often appears with certain verbs and adjectives. Common collocations include:
- Significantly increase/decrease
- Significantly improve/worsen
- Significantly affect/impact
- Significantly different
Using these collocations can make your writing sound more natural and fluent. Pay attention to the words that frequently accompany “significantly” to improve your usage.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
“Significantly” is generally considered a formal word and is more commonly used in academic writing, professional reports, and formal presentations. In informal conversations, simpler alternatives like “a lot,” “considerably,” or “substantially” may be more appropriate.
For example:
- Formal: The research findings were significantly different from previous studies.
- Informal: The research findings were a lot different from previous studies.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is using “significantly” when a simpler word would suffice, making the sentence sound overly formal or pretentious. Another mistake is misplacing “significantly” in the sentence, which can lead to ambiguity or awkward phrasing.
Additionally, using “significant” instead of “significantly” (or vice versa) is a frequent error.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| The cat sat significant on the mat. | The cat sat significantly on the mat. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb. |
| The rain fell significantly lightly. | The rain fell very lightly. | Using “significantly” when a simpler word is more appropriate. |
| He improved his grades significant. | He improved his grades significantly. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb. |
| Significantly, he was tired very. | He was significantly very tired. | Awkward placement of the adverb. |
| The price was significantly a bit high. | The price was somewhat high. | “Significantly” is too strong for “a bit.” |
| She felt significant better after resting. | She felt significantly better after resting. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb. |
| The problem was significant addressed. | The problem was significantly addressed. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb. |
| It affected significant the outcome. | It significantly affected the outcome. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb, and incorrect word order. |
| The results were significantly not good. | The results were significantly worse. | “Not good” is vague; use a more precise description. |
| They changed the plan significant. | They changed the plan significantly. | Using the adjective instead of the adverb. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of “significantly” with the following exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with “significantly” in the following sentences.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. The cost of living has increased ________ in recent years. | 1. significantly |
| 2. Her performance at work improved ________ after the training. | 2. significantly |
| 3. The new policy will ________ affect the company’s operations. | 3. significantly |
| 4. The study found that the new drug ________ reduced blood pressure. | 4. significantly |
| 5. The number of students attending the workshop increased ________. | 5. significantly |
| 6. The quality of the product improved ________ after the redesign. | 6. significantly |
| 7. The amount of rainfall has decreased ________ this year. | 7. significantly |
| 8. The traffic congestion has increased ________ during peak hours. | 8. significantly |
| 9. The athlete’s speed increased ________ after months of training. | 9. significantly |
| 10. The crime rate has decreased ________ in the neighborhood. | 10. significantly |
Exercise 2: Sentence Correction
Correct the following sentences where “significantly” is used incorrectly.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. He improved his grades significant. | 1. He improved his grades significantly. |
| 2. The rain fell significantly lightly. | 2. The rain fell very lightly. |
| 3. She felt significant better after resting. | 3. She felt significantly better after resting. |
| 4. It affected significant the outcome. | 4. It significantly affected the outcome. |
| 5. The results were significantly not good. | 5. The results were significantly worse. |
| 6. They changed the plan significant. | 6. They changed the plan significantly. |
| 7. The discovery significant impacted the field. | 7. The discovery significantly impacted the field. |
| 8. The price was significant reduced. | 8. The price was significantly reduced. |
| 9. The impact was significant felt by everyone. | 9. The impact was significantly felt by everyone. |
| 10. The value increased significant. | 10. The value increased significantly. |
Exercise 3: Sentence Construction
Create sentences using “significantly” based on the following prompts.
| Prompt | Example Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Describe a change in the weather. | 1. The weather has changed significantly in the past few days. |
| 2. Explain the impact of a new technology. | 2. The new technology will significantly improve efficiency. |
| 3. Describe an improvement in health. | 3. His health improved significantly after the treatment. |
| 4. Explain the result of a study. | 4. The study significantly altered our understanding of the topic. |
| 5. Describe a change in a company’s profits. | 5. The company’s profits increased significantly this year. |
| 6. Explain the effect of a new policy. | 6. The new policy significantly affected employee morale. |
| 7. Describe a reduction in pollution levels. | 7. Pollution levels decreased significantly after the new regulations. |
| 8. Explain the impact of a new discovery. | 8. The discovery significantly advanced our knowledge. |
| 9. Describe an increase in traffic congestion. | 9. Traffic congestion increased significantly during rush hour. |
| 10. Explain the effect of a new training program. | 10. The training program significantly improved employee skills. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of “significantly” and its alternatives can further refine their use of the word.
Synonyms and Alternatives
Several synonyms and alternatives can be used in place of “significantly,” depending on the context. These include:
- Considerably
- Substantially
- Notably
- Remarkably
- Appreciably
- Markedly
Choosing the right synonym can help you convey the precise degree of change or importance that you intend.
Subtle Nuances in Meaning
While synonyms exist, “significantly” carries a specific connotation of importance and impact. Understanding these subtle nuances can help you choose the most appropriate word for your intended meaning.
For example, “considerably” might emphasize the extent of a change, while “significantly” emphasizes the importance of that change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about using “significantly.”
- Is “significantly” always necessary in a sentence?
No, “significantly” is not always necessary. It should be used when you want to emphasize the importance or degree of something. If the change or effect is minor, a simpler word may be more appropriate.
- Can “significantly” be used in informal writing?
While “significantly” is generally considered a formal word, it can be used in informal writing if you want to emphasize the importance of something. However, simpler alternatives like “a lot” or “considerably” may be more suitable.
- What is the difference between “significant” and “significantly”?
“Significant” is an adjective that describes a noun, while “significantly” is an adverb that modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. For example, “a significant improvement” versus “improved significantly.”
- Where should “significantly” be placed in a sentence?
“Significantly” is commonly placed before the verb it modifies. It can also be placed at the beginning or end of the sentence for emphasis, but placing it before the verb is generally preferred for clarity.
- Are there any words that “significantly” commonly collocates with?
Yes, “significantly” often collocates with verbs like “increase,” “decrease,” “improve,” and “affect,” as well as adjectives like “different.”
- Is it ever wrong to use “significantly” in a sentence?
Yes, it can be wrong if it’s used when a simpler word would suffice, making the sentence sound overly formal. It’s also wrong if it’s used in the wrong context or if it’s misplaced in the sentence, leading to ambiguity.
- How can I improve my usage of “significantly”?
Pay attention to how “significantly” is used in different contexts, practice using it in your writing, and ask for feedback from native English speakers or language experts. Understanding the nuances of its meaning and usage will help you use it more effectively.
- What are some common mistakes to avoid when using “significantly”?
Avoid using “significant” instead of “significantly” (or vice versa), misplacing “significantly” in the sentence, and using “significantly” when a simpler word would be more appropriate.
- Can “significantly” be used to modify adjectives?
Yes, “significantly” can modify adjectives to emphasize their degree or intensity. For example, “The results were significantly better than expected.”
- Does “significantly” always imply a positive change?
No, “significantly” does not always imply a positive change. It can be used to describe both positive and negative changes. For example, “The patient’s condition deteriorated significantly.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “significantly” can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in both formal and informal settings. By understanding its definition, structural breakdown, types of usage, and usage rules, you can confidently incorporate this word into your vocabulary.
Remember to avoid common mistakes and practice using “significantly” in various contexts to refine your skills.
By paying attention to the nuances and practicing regularly, you can confidently and accurately use “significantly” to add precision and impact to your language. Keep exploring and refining your understanding of English grammar to become a more effective communicator.