Significant vs. Remarkable — What's the Difference?

Significant implies that something holds importance, value, or consequence in a given context, suggesting it has a meaningful impact or relevance. For example, a significant discovery in science can change the way we understand a phenomenon, indicating its importance within the scientific community. On the other hand, remarkable points to something that stands out because it is extraordinary or unusual, such as a remarkable feat of engineering that surpasses common expectations or norms. This term emphasizes the aspect of drawing attention or admiration because of exceptional qualities.

The use of significant often relates to the magnitude of impact or relevance something has, such as a significant amount of evidence supporting a theory. It emphasizes the weight or importance of an element within a larger context, suggesting that its presence or role is crucial to understanding or determining outcomes. Whereas remarkable emphasizes the capacity to elicit surprise, admiration, or awe, often because the subject exceeds ordinary standards or expectations, like a remarkable performance that captivates an audience far beyond the norm.

In academic or professional settings, significant is frequently used to describe findings, changes, or results that have a meaningful impact on a field or practice, denoting their contribution to advancement or understanding. In contrast, remarkable might be used to describe achievements, qualities, or phenomena that are extraordinary, underscoring their distinction from what is commonly encountered or expected in those fields.

Significance can also denote a level of importance that warrants attention or consideration, such as a significant problem that requires solving. It carries an implication of needing to be addressed due to potential implications. Remarkable, however, conveys an element of exceptionality that makes something a subject of remark or discussion, not necessarily because of its implications but because of its outstanding nature.

While both significant and remarkable denote something noteworthy, their usage underscores different aspects: significance is more about impact and importance, whereas remarkability highlights extraordinariness and the ability to stand out from the norm.