Translation guide
The English word "significance" covers several related ideas: importance, meaning, and statistical significance. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each nuance.
Expressing that something is important, meaningful, or has great impact.
The most direct and common translation for 'significance' in the sense of importance. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Do you understand the significance of this issue?
Refers to the deeper meaning, value, or worth of something, often in a philosophical or social context. Slightly more formal than 重要性.
His research has great significance.
Literally 'has meaning', often used to say something is significant or worthwhile. More casual and versatile.
I think this work is truly significant.
Emphasizes seriousness or gravity. Often used for negative consequences or critical importance.
He didn't realize the significance of that decision.
Means 'meaningful' or 'significant' in a positive sense, often used to describe experiences or activities. Somewhat formal.
I spent a significant (meaningful) time.
Referring to what something signifies, its underlying meaning or symbolism.
The most common word for 'meaning'. Can be used for significance in the sense of what something means.
What is the significance of this symbol?
As above, but here emphasizes the deeper significance or implication rather than just dictionary meaning.
Refers to the implication or connotation of something. More technical or academic.
In research or data analysis, whether a result is likely not due to chance.
The standard term for statistical significance. Used in academic and professional contexts.
The results did not show statistical significance.
Short for 'significant difference'. Commonly used in scientific papers.
Adjectival form meaning 'significant' in the statistical sense. Often used in compounds like 有意水準 (significance level).
重要性 (じゅうようせい) is the most direct translation for 'importance' and is widely used. 意義 (いぎ) carries a nuance of deeper value or philosophical meaning. Use 重要性 for practical importance, and 意義 for significance in a broader, often social or historical context.
有意義 (ゆういぎ) is a formal word meaning 'meaningful'. It is not a general substitute for 'significant'. Avoid using it in casual conversation; 意味がある is more natural.
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated.
What is the significance of the red color in this painting?
Let's consider the true significance of those words.
The political significance (implications) of this statement is great.
二つのグループの間に有意差が見られた。
A significant difference was observed between the two groups.
This difference is not significant.