the important thing

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   the single most important fact, point, or action in a situation.

   Grammar: Used as a noun phrase and usually followed by 'is': The important thing is ...

   Patterns

   • the important thing is (that) ...
   • the important thing is to do something
   • the important thing about something

   The important thing is that everyone got home safely.

   The important thing is to stay calm and call for help.

   The important thing about this recipe is not to rush the sauce.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   used to introduce the main point you want someone to remember.

   Grammar: Often at the start of a sentence, like a discourse marker: The important thing is, we tried.

   Patterns

   • the important thing is, ...

   The important thing is, we learned from the mistake.

   The important thing is, nobody was hurt.

Common combinations

the important thing is

The important thing is to finish before Friday.

the important thing about

The important thing about this job is the teamwork.

the important thing here

The important thing here is trust.

remember the important thing

Just remember the important thing: keep your receipt.

Synonyms and how they differ

the main thing

Very close in meaning, but 'the main thing' often sounds a little more informal and practical.

the key point

More formal and often used in discussions or writing about arguments.

the bottom line

Informal and business-like; it focuses on the final result or decision, not just importance.

Commonly confused: the important thing or important thing?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “the important thing”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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