Meaning and Usage
"重要" (じゅうよう) means "important" or "essential." It is used to describe things, points, or matters that have significant value or necessity in various contexts such as work, health, or daily life.
Common Contexts
You will often see "重要" used in formal or semi-formal situations like business meetings, official documents, or discussions about priorities. It emphasizes the significance of the subject.
Collocations and Patterns
- 重要な書類 (じゅうようなしょるい): important documents
- 重要なポイント (じゅうようなポイント): important points
- 重要な役割 (じゅうようなやくわり): important role
- 重要視する (じゅうようしする): to consider something important
Nuances and Tips
When using "重要," the speaker implies that the subject should be given attention or priority. It is more formal than casual words like "大事" (だいじ), so use it in professional or serious contexts. Avoid confusing "重要" with "重大" (じゅうだい), which often implies seriousness or gravity, sometimes with negative connotations.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes use "重要" too casually. Remember to reserve it for situations where the importance is objective and recognized, rather than personal preference.