Understanding the Correct Usage of “More Importantly” vs. “More Important”
Many English learners—and even native speakers—feel unsure about whether to say “more importantly” or “more important.” Both expressions are common in spoken and written English, and both can be correct. However, they are used in slightly different ways depending on grammar and sentence structure.
Understanding the difference will help you sound more natural, especially in formal writing, academic essays, and professional communication. In this guide, we’ll explain the grammar behind each form, show when to use them, and provide clear examples you can follow.
The Basic Difference
The key difference comes down to parts of speech:
- “More important” is a comparative adjective.
- “More importantly” is a comparative adverb.
Adjectives describe nouns. Adverbs describe verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses.
1. “More Important” (Adjective)
We use “more important” to describe a noun. It usually appears before a noun or after a linking verb (like is, seems, becomes).
This issue is more important than we thought.
Health is more important than money.
We need to focus on more important tasks first.
In each example, “more important” describes a noun (issue, health, tasks).
2. “More Importantly” (Adverb)
We use “more importantly” when we want to comment on an entire statement or add emphasis to what follows. It often appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause.
The project was completed on time. More importantly, it stayed within budget.
She is talented and, more importantly, hardworking.
More importantly, we need to think about the long-term effects.
Here, “more importantly” modifies the whole idea that follows. It shows that the second point is more significant.
Why Is There Confusion?
The confusion exists because both forms are widely used in similar situations. In fact, many modern style guides accept both forms when they introduce a more significant point.
For example, both of these sentences are commonly used:
More important, we need to protect our customers' data.
More importantly, we need to protect our customers' data.
In formal grammar, “more importantly” is traditionally preferred because it functions as an adverb modifying the entire sentence. However, “more important” has also become widely accepted in modern English, especially in journalism and business writing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | More Important | More Importantly |
|---|---|---|
| Part of Speech | Adjective | Adverb |
| Describes | A noun | A verb, adjective, or whole clause |
| Common Position | Before a noun or after a linking verb | Beginning or middle of a sentence |
| Example | This problem is more important. | More importantly, this problem affects everyone. |
| Formality | Neutral to formal | Slightly more formal in clause-introducing use |
How to Choose the Right One
Use “More Important” When:
- You are comparing two nouns.
- The phrase directly describes something.
- It follows a linking verb (is, seems, becomes).
Education is more important than fame.
This meeting is more important than yesterday’s.
Finding a solution is more important than assigning blame.
Use “More Importantly” When:
- You are adding a stronger or more significant point.
- You are commenting on the entire statement.
- You can replace it with “more significantly” or “most importantly.”
The team worked hard. More importantly, they worked together.
He apologized and, more importantly, corrected his mistake.
More importantly, we must prevent this from happening again.
A Simple Test
If you are unsure which form to use, try this quick test:
- If the word describes a thing, use more important.
- If it introduces or comments on a whole idea, use more importantly.
For example:
Which is more important: time or money?
Here, you are comparing two nouns, so “more important” is correct.
The plan will save money. More importantly, it will save lives.
Here, you are emphasizing the second statement, so “more importantly” is appropriate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using “More Importantly” to Describe a Noun
Incorrect:
This is a more importantly issue.
Correct:
This is a more important issue.
2. Overthinking in Informal Writing
In everyday conversation, both forms are often accepted when introducing a key point. However, in academic or professional writing, “more importantly” is usually safer when modifying a whole sentence.
Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
- “More important” is an adjective and describes a noun.
- “More importantly” is an adverb and modifies a verb or entire clause.
- Use “more important” when directly comparing things.
- Use “more importantly” when emphasizing a more significant point.
- Both forms are widely accepted when introducing a statement, but “more importantly” is traditionally more grammatically precise.
Conclusion
The difference between “more important” and “more importantly” comes down to grammar and function. One describes things, while the other emphasizes ideas. Although modern English allows some flexibility, understanding the traditional rule will help you write more clearly and confidently.
When in doubt, ask yourself: Am I describing a noun—or emphasizing a whole idea? The answer will guide you to the correct choice.