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.
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.
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.
結果は統計的有意性を示さなかった。
The results did not show statistical significance.
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.
この発見の重要性はいくら強調してもしすぎることはない。
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated.
この絵における赤色の意味は何ですか。
What is the significance of the red color in this painting?
The most direct and common translation for 'significance' in the sense of importance. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
この問題の重要性を理解していますか。
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.
彼の研究は大きな意義がある。
His research has great significance.
Literally 'has meaning', often used to say something is significant or worthwhile. More casual and versatile.
この仕事は本当に意味があると思う。
I think this work is truly significant.
Emphasizes seriousness or gravity. Often used for negative consequences or critical importance.
その決定の重大さに気づいていなかった。
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.
有意義な時間を過ごしました。
I spent a significant (meaningful) time.
このシンボルの意味は何ですか。
What is the significance of this symbol?
As above, but here emphasizes the deeper significance or implication rather than just dictionary meaning.
その言葉の真の意義を考えてみよう。
Let's consider the true significance of those words.
Refers to the implication or connotation of something. More technical or academic.
この発言の政治的含意は大きい。
The political significance (implications) of this statement is great.
Short for 'significant difference'. Commonly used in scientific papers.
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.
Adjectival form meaning 'significant' in the statistical sense. Often used in compounds like 有意水準 (significance level).
この差は有意ではない。
This difference is not significant.