English Lexicon

Substantial

/səbˈstæn.ʃəl/
adjectivenounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #2150 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Of considerable importance, size, or worth; equivalent to a decent amount.

    "They made a substantial investment in renewable energy."
  2. 2

    Strongly and solidly built.

    "The bridge was built with substantial steel beams to withstand heavy traffic."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from late Middle English (in the sense 'having substance or actual existence'), via Old French from Latin substantialis, from substantia ('substance, being'). Over time, the meaning evolved from denoting physical reality or material worth to describing large, significant, or considerable quantities and degrees.

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