The phrase "significant role" refers to an important and noteworthy part or contribution in something. It implies that the person, thing, or event being referred to has a substantial impact on the situation at hand, and plays a crucial part in shaping its outcome. The term can be used to describe anything from a key player's actions in a particular scenario, to the importance of certain factors or variables in influencing an overall result. In essence, "significant role" indicates that something has a meaningful impact and contributes substantially to what is happening.