What does importantly mean?
Importantly is an adverb used to signal that a statement, qualification, or consequence deserves special attention. It commonly appears at the beginning of a sentence, as in “Importantly, the results remained consistent,” or before a contrasting point, as in “More importantly, the process is affordable.” Its use can add emphasis to a central idea while also suggesting that other points mentioned alongside it are less significant. The word is especially common in formal writing, presentations, academic discussion, and public communication, although it is also natural in everyday conversation. Importantly differs from words such as especially and particularly in that it focuses specifically on significance or consequence, not merely degree, contrast, or unusualness. It is therefore useful when a speaker or writer wants the audience to understand exactly which issue carries the greatest weight.
adverbUsed to emphasize the importance or significance of a point, often when the point contrasts with another issue or introduces a key qualification.
- In a statement or discussion, draws attention to a point because it is especially significant, consequential, or deserving of emphasis.
"Importantly, the proposal also addresses the environmental impact of the project."
"Importantly, the evidence also shows that the policy works best when it is applied locally."
"The presentation was entertaining, but, more importantly, it was clear and well organized."
One small adverb can change the whole shape of an argument: what is “importantly” is never merely a side detail.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does importantly come from?
The word comes from the adjective important, which was borrowed into English from French important, ultimately from the Latin importare, meaning “to carry in” or “to bring into.” The sense developed from carrying something inward to carrying great significance or weight. The adverb importantly was formed in English from important and the suffix -ly, while related forms such as importance and import preserve the same Latin root.
How importantly is actually used
Common in formal and semi-formal writing, especially in argumentative, academic, and explanatory contexts. It is often used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to mark a qualification or major point.
Easily confused with importantly
No distinction applies; this is the same word.