salient

Meanings

1. 1adjectivebefore a nounformal

   Standing out as especially noticeable or important within a larger set of details.

   Grammar: Almost always before a noun: the salient points, salient features.

   Patterns

   • the salient points/facts
   • salient features
   • the most salient

   The report summarizes the salient facts of the case in two pages.

   Cost was the most salient concern for most voters.

   One salient feature of the plan is its focus on early education.

2. 2adjectivebefore a nounspecialistmilitary

   Jutting or projecting outward, especially of a part of a fortification or a shape.

   Grammar: A technical sense mostly found in military history and geography writing.

   Patterns

   • a salient angle
   • a salient of the fortifications

   The castle's defenses included a salient wall facing the valley.

   The army attacked the northern salient of the enemy's lines.

Common combinations

the salient points

Let me outline the salient points of the proposal.

salient features

The salient features of the new phone include a larger screen.

the most salient

The most salient difference between the twins is their temper.

Synonyms and how they differ

main

Main is the everyday word; salient is more formal and means prominent among many details, not simply largest.

prominent

Prominent stresses visibility; salient stresses importance or noticeability in context.

notable

Notable means worthy of attention; salient specifically singles something out from a surrounding set of details.

key

Key means crucial to success; salient means most noticeable, which may or may not be crucial.

Opposites

Word family

salience noun

The quality of being especially noticeable or important.

saliently adverb

In a noticeable or prominent way; rare.

Commonly confused: salient or silent?

Practice

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