adj

momentous

moh-MEHN-tuhs

adj

Of great importance, especially because of lasting consequences.

"Signing the peace treaty was a momentous occasion for both nations."

"She made the momentous decision to leave her job and start a business."

How to Use Momentous

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHugely important or significant, often marking a turning point.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "momentary" (brief) — momentous is about importance, not duration.

Easily confused with

momentary →

Common pairings

momentous occasion momentous decision momentous event

more momentous comparative, most momentous superlative

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Signing the peace treaty was a _____ occasion for both nations.

From "moment" in the older sense of "weight, importance," plus the adjective suffix "-ous."

yous nous pious joyous famous odious porous mucous Aldous heinous ominous curious