Momentous vs. Monumental — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 25, 2024
Momentous events significantly influence future developments, whereas monumental refers to something exceptionally large or enduring in impact.
Difference Between Momentous and Monumental
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Momentous describes events or decisions that have great importance or significance, often altering the course of future events. In contrast, monumental is typically used to describe objects, achievements, or structures that are extraordinarily large or impressive in size, scope, or historical importance.
Momentous is often applied to scenarios like historical decisions or pivotal moments, emphasizing their transformative impact on the future. Whereas, monumental often relates to physical structures like monuments or metaphorically to represent efforts or achievements that are remarkably great or enduring.
While a momentous occasion might change the way societies function or think, a monumental achievement stands as a testament to human endeavor and creativity, often celebrated over generations.
Momentous can also carry a sense of urgency or immediate significance, influencing immediate perceptions or actions. Conversely, monumental, though impactful, typically conveys a sense of permanence and longevity, outlasting its creators and continuing to inspire or awe far into the future.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Of great importance or significance.
Massive or enduring in quality or form.
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Typical Usage
Applied to events or decisions.
Applied to objects, achievements.
Impact on Time
Influences future developments.
Represents endurance over time.
Scope of Influence
Can be temporal or transformative.
Often physical or symbolic.
Emotional Connotation
Implies significant change or action.
Implies awe or admiration.
Compare with Definitions
Momentous
Signifying a major, pivotal change.
The moon landing was a momentous event in human history.
Monumental
Significantly great, as in extent, degree, or seriousness.
The task ahead is of monumental difficulty.
Momentous
Critical or crucial in a historical context.
The signing of the treaty was a momentous milestone.
Monumental
Exceptionally large and impressive.
The new skyscraper is a monumental structure.
Momentous
Important in effect or meaning.
Today's peace talks could be momentous.
Monumental
Resembling a monument.
The monument’s design is monumental in its scope.
Momentous
Marking an important event or period.
Her appointment as CEO was a momentous occasion.
Monumental
Of lasting importance and enduring.
His contributions to science are monumental.
Momentous
Having great or far-reaching significance or consequences.
The president's decision was momentous for the nation's policy.
Monumental
Historically significant.
The revolutionary war sites are monumental to the nation’s history.
Momentous
Of utmost importance; of outstanding significance or consequence
A momentous occasion.
A momentous decision.
Monumental
Great in importance, extent, or size
It's been a monumental effort
Momentous
Outstanding in importance, of great consequence.
Monumental
Of or serving as a monument
Additional details are found in monumental inscriptions
Momentous
Of moment or consequence; very important; weighty; as, a momentous decision; momentous affairs.
Monumental
Of, resembling, or serving as a monument.
Momentous
Of very great significance;
Deciding to drop the atom bomb was a very big decision
A momentous event
Monumental
Impressively large, sturdy, and enduring.
Monumental
Of outstanding significance
Einstein's monumental contributions to physics.
Monumental
Astounding
Monumental cowardice.
Monumental talent.
Monumental
In the manner of a monument.
Monumental
Large, grand and imposing.
Monumental
Taking a great amount of time and effort to complete.
A monumental task
Monumental
(archaeology) Relating to monuments.
Monumental construction.
Monumental
Of, pertaining to, or suitable for, a monument; as, a monumental inscription.
Monumental
Serving as a monument; memorial; preserving memory.
A work outlasting monumental brass.
Monumental
Of lasting significance; as, a monumental work of literature; a monumental accomplishment.
Monumental
Exceptionally large in quantity, quality, or degree; as, a monumental amount of work to be done
Monumental
Relating or belonging to or serving as a monument;
The use of the arch in monumental architecture
Monumental sculptures
Monumental
Of outstanding significance;
Einstein's monumental contributions to physics
Monumental
Imposing in size or bulk or solidity;
Massive oak doors
Moore's massive sculptures
The monolithic proportions of Stalinist architecture
A monumental scale
Common Curiosities
What does momentous mean in historical terms?
In historical terms, momentous refers to events or periods that have significantly influenced the course of history.
Can the term momentous be used for personal experiences?
Yes, personal experiences can be momentous if they are significantly impactful or transformative for an individual.
What are examples of monumental architecture?
Examples of monumental architecture include the Pyramids of Giza, the Taj Mahal, and the Roman Colosseum.
How do momentous decisions affect society?
Momentous decisions can lead to significant social, political, or economic changes, influencing the lives and futures of many.
How can an achievement be described as monumental?
An achievement can be described as monumental if it is exceptionally large, significant, or of lasting importance.
Is a momentous occasion always positive?
No, a momentous occasion can be either positive or negative, depending on its consequences and perspective.
How is a sports victory considered monumental?
A sports victory is considered monumental when it has historical significance, breaks records, or is achieved against significant odds.
What makes an artwork monumental?
Artwork is considered monumental when it has a massive scale, enduring quality, or makes a significant impact on cultural history.
What is the difference in usage between momentous and monumental in literature?
In literature, momentous is used for plot-critical events or turns, while monumental describes settings or themes of grand scale and lasting importance.
Can a scientific discovery be momentous?
Yes, scientific discoveries can be momentous if they bring about significant changes in understanding or capabilities.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
