an important lesson

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important lesson" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a significant teaching or moral that one learns from an experience or situation. Example: "After reflecting on my mistakes, I realized that I had learned an important lesson about responsibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is an important lesson.

The Economist

It's an important lesson.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Adidas clearly learned an important lesson.

The Economist

I think that was an important lesson.

The New York Times

But he had learned an important lesson.

The New York Times - Sports

It's such an important lesson.

The New York Times

There's an important lesson here.

Harvard Business Review

Matt learned an important lesson.

Harvard Business Review

"That was an important lesson for me".

The New York Times

It was an important lesson for me".

The New York Times - Sports

That seems like an important lesson.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an important lesson" when referring to knowledge gained from a specific event, situation, or teaching that has lasting value.

Common error

Avoid using "an important lesson" for trivial or minor insights. Reserve it for experiences that genuinely lead to significant personal or professional growth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important lesson" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "learned an important lesson") or as a subject complement. It identifies a specific instance of learning that carries significant weight, as evidenced by examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

2.5%

Wiki

2.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Based on the analysis, "an important lesson" is a commonly used phrase across various contexts, from news articles to academic papers. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. To use it effectively, focus on conveying the true significance and impact of the learning experience. Consider alternative phrases like "a valuable lesson" or "a key takeaway" for nuanced expression. Avoid using the phrase for trivial insights and remember to provide context to emphasize the lesson's significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable lesson

Focuses on the worth or benefit gained from the lesson.

a significant learning experience

Emphasizes the experiential aspect and the magnitude of what was learned.

a key takeaway

Highlights the most crucial point or understanding derived from an event or situation.

a crucial insight

Stresses the depth and importance of the understanding gained.

a formative experience

Suggests the lesson had a significant impact on shaping one's character or future.

a memorable learning

Implies the lesson is likely to be remembered due to its impact or the circumstances surrounding it.

a noteworthy instruction

Highlights the value and worth of the instruction received.

a pivotal realization

Indicates the lesson led to a crucial turning point or change in understanding.

a profound understanding

Emphasizes the depth and thoroughness of the knowledge gained.

a game-changing discovery

Suggests the lesson has dramatically altered one's approach or perspective.

FAQs

How can I effectively convey "an important lesson" in writing?

Provide specific details about the situation or experience that led to the lesson. Explain why it was significant and how it changed your perspective or behavior. Use phrases like "taught me", "showed me", or "realized" to highlight the learning process.

What are some alternatives to "an important lesson"?

You can use alternatives like "a valuable lesson", "a significant learning experience", or "a key takeaway" depending on the context.

How does "an important lesson" differ from a simple learning experience?

"An important lesson" implies a deeper, more impactful understanding that has lasting consequences or significantly alters one's perspective. A simple learning experience might be a minor or easily forgotten event.

Is it appropriate to use "an important lesson" in formal writing?

Yes, "an important lesson" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when reflecting on experiences or drawing conclusions from research. However, ensure the tone and content align with the overall formality of the piece.