Weighty: meaning, definitions and examples

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weighty

 

[ˈweɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a serious or important manner

Having great weight; heavy; ponderous. Important; momentous.

Synonyms

important, momentous, serious, significant, substantial.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weighty

Employ this term to describe matters that are serious, challenging, and require deep thought or consideration.

  • He had to make a weighty decision that could affect the entire team
serious

Applied when discussing matters that require careful thought, consideration, or have potentially severe consequences.

  • This is a serious issue that needs our immediate attention
significant

Used to indicate something that is notably important or meaningful, often marked by measurable or notable effects.

  • The new policy had a significant impact on the company's revenue
substantial

Best used when referencing something that is large in amount, degree, or importance.

  • She has made a substantial contribution to the research project
important

Utilized when describing something that has a major impact or is crucial in context. It is a versatile word appropriate for both formal and informal settings.

  • It's important to stay hydrated during the summer
momentous

Used to describe events or decisions that have great significance and often historical impact. Typically employed in a more formal or grand setting.

  • The signing of the peace treaty was a momentous occasion for both countries

Examples of usage

  • He made a weighty decision that would affect the future of the company.
  • The weighty matters discussed at the meeting required careful consideration.
  • The weighty responsibility of leading the team fell on his shoulders.
  • Her weighty presence commanded attention in the room.
  • The weighty book contained valuable information on the topic.
Context #2 | Adjective

having a lot of influence or authority

Having influence, power, or authority. Impressive because of size, power, or dignity.

Synonyms

authoritative, dignified, impressive, influential, powerful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
weighty

Typically used to describe objects or matters that are heavy in a physical or metaphorical sense. Often, it implies seriousness or importance.

  • The decision to go to war is a weighty one
  • The book was filled with weighty topics
influential

Refers to someone or something that has the power to affect decisions, opinions, or actions of others.

  • She is one of the most influential figures in modern art
  • His work had a profound and influential impact on the industry
authoritative

Refers to someone or something that commands respect and is dependable, often based on knowledge, expertise, or experience.

  • His voice had an authoritative tone that silenced the room
  • The study is considered authoritative in the field
impressive

Used when describing something that evokes admiration due to its size, quality, or skill. Generally positive.

  • The view from the top of the mountain was impressive
  • His performance in the play was truly impressive
powerful

Describes someone or something with great strength or effectiveness. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses.

  • The speech he gave was powerful and moved everyone
  • The powerful engine of the car ensures a smooth ride
dignified

Describes someone or something that has an appearance or manner that is worthy of respect and honor. Often used in formal contexts.

  • She carried herself with a dignified air despite the challenges
  • The ceremony was a dignified affair, befitting the occasion

Examples of usage

  • She is a weighty figure in the field of science.
  • His weighty words carried a lot of weight in the decision-making process.
  • The weighty document outlined the new policies for the organization.
  • The weighty arguments presented by the lawyer swayed the jury.
  • The weighty presence of the president at the event drew a large crowd.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'weighty' comes from the Old English 'wægtnes', meaning something that has weight.
  • In Middle English, 'weighty' evolved to describe not just physical heaviness but also figurative importance.
  • Related terms such as 'weight' and 'weigh' share the same root, emphasizing measurement and heaviness.

Literature

  • Writers use 'weighty' to describe themes or ideas that evoke deep thought, like moral dilemmas and philosophical questions.
  • In poetry, a 'weighty' metaphor can add depth, often making the reader pause and reflect on the underlying meaning.
  • Authors often describe characters’ feelings as 'weighty' when they feel burdened by responsibilities or emotions.

Psychology

  • In psychology, 'weighty' can describe feelings of pressure or stress that come from significant life decisions.
  • The concept of emotional weight refers to how much a person's feelings and experiences can affect their mental health.
  • People might refer to their responsibilities as 'weighty' when they feel overwhelmed by their duties.

Science

  • In physics, the term 'weighty' relates to gravity, as it describes objects that exert a significant force downwards due to their mass.
  • Materials like lead or iron are often described as 'weighty' due to their high density, affecting how they are utilized in construction or machinery.
  • Understanding 'weight' involves learning about mass and density, crucial concepts in both chemistry and physics.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a 'weighty' performance often refers to actors delivering emotional and powerful portrayals that resonate with viewers.
  • Songs with 'weighty' lyrics tend to address serious themes like love, loss, and social issues, making a big impact.
  • Critiques of art often note if a work is 'weighty,' suggesting it carries significant meaning or provokes substantial thought.

Translations

Translations of the word "weighty" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pesado

🇮🇳 भारी

🇩🇪 gewichtig

🇮🇩 berat

🇺🇦 важкий

🇵🇱 ciężki

🇯🇵 重い

🇫🇷 lourd

🇪🇸 pesado

🇹🇷 ağır

🇰🇷 무거운

🇸🇦 ثقيل

🇨🇿 těžký

🇸🇰 ťažký

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 težek

🇮🇸 þungur

🇰🇿 ауыр

🇬🇪 მძიმე

🇦🇿 ağır

🇲🇽 pesado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,017, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.