Inklingo

How to Say "important" in Spanish

English → Spanish

importante

/eem-por-TAHN-teh//impoɾˈtante/

AdjectiveA1general
Use 'importante' for general significance, necessity, or when something is generally considered a big deal.
A massive, antique golden key resting prominently on a tall, sturdy stone pedestal, emphasizing its significance and value.

Examples

Es muy importante estudiar.

It's very important to study.

Tengo una reunión importante mañana.

I have an important meeting tomorrow.

Él es una figura importante en la política local.

He is an important figure in local politics.

Same for Everyone

Importante ends in '-e', which is great news! It means you use the same form for both masculine and feminine things. For example: 'el libro importante' (the important book) and 'la casa importante' (the important house).

Placement is Key

Usually, importante comes after the thing it describes, just like in English. For example, 'una reunión importante' (an important meeting). Placing it before ('una importante reunión') adds a bit of emphasis or a more formal tone.

Your Go-To Verb: 'ser'

To say something is important, you'll almost always use the verb 'ser'. For example, 'Ser honesto es importante' (Being honest is important).

The 'Es importante que...' Rule

Mistake: “Es importante que tú estudias mucho.”

Correction: Es importante que tú estudies mucho. When you say it's important for *someone else* to do something, the verb that follows needs a special ending. This is a huge pattern in Spanish!

grave

AdjectiveA2formal
Use 'grave' to describe consequences or situations that are serious, severe, or have weighty implications.

Examples

Las consecuencias de la sequía son muy graves.

The consequences of the drought are very serious.

serio

AdjectiveB1general
Use 'serio' to refer to damage, problems, or situations that are consequential and significant in their impact.

Examples

Hubo daños serios en los edificios después del terremoto.

There was serious damage to the buildings after the earthquake.

valioso

vah-lee-OH-soh/baˈljo.so/

AdjectiveB1general
Use 'valioso' when referring to something that has great worth, value, or is highly cherished, often in a personal or monetary sense.
A smiling gardener holding a small watering can, looking proudly at a large, flourishing potted plant filled with vibrant, colorful flowers.

Examples

Tu amistad es lo más valioso que tengo.

Your friendship is the most valuable thing I have.

La experiencia que adquirimos fue muy valiosa para el proyecto.

The experience we gained was very worthwhile for the project.

El tiempo que pasamos juntos es valioso e irremplazable.

The time we spend together is precious and irreplaceable.

Describing Abstract Nouns

This meaning is often used with abstract things like 'tiempo' (time), 'esfuerzo' (effort), 'opinión' (opinion), and 'amistad' (friendship). It works the same way as the first meaning, ensuring the ending matches the abstract noun.

General vs. Specific Importance

Learners often default to 'importante' for all situations. Remember that 'grave' and 'serio' describe negative consequences or serious situations, while 'valioso' refers to something precious or having high worth. Use 'importante' when the significance is general or positive.

Related Translations

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