true significance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "true significance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the deeper meaning or importance of something, often in a philosophical or analytical context. Example: "To understand the true significance of the event, we must consider its historical context and the impact it had on society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"The true significance of the place was not understood.

The Guardian

The true significance of creating new universities lies elsewhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the true significance of those words escapes poor Rabbit.

The New York Times - Science

And that is the true significance of this new coalition.

The Guardian

But its true significance comes clear only at the end.

Independent

As he examined the notebook, "the manuscript's true significance suddenly came into focus".

The Guardian - Books

Glamour contributor Christiane Amanpour underlined to readers the true significance of this compliment.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Story of the Scrolls: The Miraculous Discovery and True Significance of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

The Economist

The measure's true significance is political, in its newfound popularity on the Hill among both conservatives and liberals.

The New York Times

Science on television is often subject to reductio ad absurdum, misrepresents how science happens and the true significance of evidence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Newspapers so often bandy about the million unit that readers can get inured to its true significance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "true significance", ensure you clarify what makes the significance "true" by providing specific context or evidence. Avoid using it as a generic intensifier.

Common error

Avoid using "true significance" when a simpler term like "importance" or "relevance" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound hyperbolic or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true significance" functions as a noun phrase, where "true" modifies "significance" to emphasize the genuine or real importance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "true significance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression aimed at emphasizing the genuine importance or underlying meaning of something. As Ludwig AI notes, it is correct and usable in written English. Appearing across diverse sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias, its primary function is to highlight a deeper understanding. When employing this phrase, it’s crucial to provide adequate context to substantiate the claimed significance, avoiding overuse to maintain clarity and impact. Related phrases like "real meaning" or "genuine importance" can be used for variety. By understanding its nuances, writers can effectively convey the authentic value and implications of their subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

real meaning

Emphasizes the actual or authentic meaning, differing slightly from significance.

genuine importance

Highlights the authentic and considerable value of something.

actual relevance

Focuses on the practical and factual connection to a subject.

authentic value

Stresses the genuine and intrinsic worth.

core essence

Refers to the fundamental nature or central quality.

deeper import

Highlights a profound and underlying importance.

inherent gravity

Indicates a natural and serious weight or consequence.

precise noteworthiness

Focuses on the exact and remarkable aspects of something.

factual weight

Emphasizes the importance derived from verifiable facts.

substantive meaningfulness

Highlights the significant and impactful nature.

FAQs

How can I use "true significance" in a sentence?

You can use "true significance" to emphasize the real importance or meaning of something. For example: "To understand the "true significance" of the discovery, one must examine its impact on future research."

What phrases can I use instead of "true significance"?

Alternatives to "true significance" include "real meaning", "genuine importance", or "actual relevance", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "true significance" and "certain significance"?

"True significance" emphasizes the genuine and factual importance, while "certain significance" might imply a guaranteed or definite importance. The former focuses on reality, while the latter on assurance. It depends on the specific context, but in the context of the actual/real/genuine worth, the "true significance" is the most proper one.

What makes "true significance" different from simply saying "significance"?

Adding "true" emphasizes that you are referring to the genuine or most accurate understanding of the importance, rather than a superficial or misinterpreted one. If you want to imply genuineness, the "true significance" term should be preferred.