German word

wichtig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈvɪçtɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveserious

Example

Das ist ein wichtiger Fehler.

This is a serious mistake.

Illustration for wichtig (serious)

More examples

Ich finde es wichtig, pünktlich zu kommen.

I find it important to arrive on time.

Core concept

A heavy factor that can tilt the outcome of a matter or decision.

Common phrases

  • wichtig für mich

    important to me

  • wichtig finden

    regard as important

Similar words

bedeutend: Marked by substantial meaning, value, or importance.
wesentlich: Central to the essential nature of the matter.
relevant: Pertinent to the topic and significant in context.
dringend: Calling for urgent attention without delay.

Definition in German

Von großer Bedeutung für eine Sache oder Entscheidung; beeinflusst das Ergebnis.

Word origin

Wichtig comes from Middle High German wichtic, formed from wicht, 'weight', with the suffix -ig, so it originally described something having weight.

Usage tips

  • Wichtig means important or significant, while dringend specifically means urgent and does not simply mean more important.

Other meanings

  • importantadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word