istotne

Istotne is a Polish adjective meaning important, significant, or essential. It is used to indicate that something has substantial relevance in a given context, such as information, decisions, or factors. The term is common in academic, legal, policy, and journalistic language, where precise assessment of relevance matters.

Etymology and form: Istotne derives from istotny, linked to istota meaning essence or substance. Like other Polish adjectives, istotne agrees with the noun in gender and number; masculine singular is istotny, feminine singular istotna, neuter singular and many plural forms use istotne. Common phrases include istotne informacje (important information), istotne czynniki (significant factors), and istotny problem (a key problem).

Usage notes: Istotne is used to convey objective significance, often in analytic or evaluative contexts. It can be contrasted with synonyms such as ważny (general importance), znaczący (notable or meaningful impact), and kluczowy (decisive or pivotal). In some cases istotne emphasizes essential or indispensable characteristics rather than mere preference.