Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Of very great significance or importance: Describing an event, decision, or period that has major consequences or is of critical importance.

Usage

• The word "momentous" is used to describe something that is extremely important, often marking a turning point or having a profound impact on the future. It is a formal adjective typically applied to events, decisions, or discoveries.

Examples

• The signing of the peace treaty was a momentous occasion for both nations.
• The scientist made a momentous discovery that changed our understanding of physics.
• The CEO faced a momentous decision about the future of the company.

Advanced Usage

• "Momentous occasion": A very important event or ceremony.
  • Graduation is a momentous occasion in a young person's life.
• "Momentous decision": A choice of critical importance.
  • Choosing a university is a momentous decision for many students.

Variants and Related Words

• Momentously (adverb): In a manner of great significance.
  • The discovery was momentously announced to the world.
• Momentousness (noun): The quality of being momentous.
  • The momentousness of the event was felt by everyone present.

Synonyms

• Historic: Important in history.
• Pivotal: Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
• Epoch-making: Marking an important new development or period.

Antonyms

• Insignificant: Too small or unimportant to be worth consideration.
• Trivial: Of little value or importance.
• Minor: Lesser in importance, seriousness, or significance.

Idioms and Phrases

• A momentous step/leap: A very significant action or advancement.
  • The invention of the internet was a momentous leap for human communication.

Adjective

1. of very great significance
   • deciding to drop the atom bomb was a very big decision
   • a momentous event