Substance

Definition

The term "substance" refers to the physical material of which something is made or the essential nature or quality of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌb.stəns/
• Respelling: SUB-stəns

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌb.stəns/
• Respelling: SUB-stəns

Etymology

The word "substance" originates from the Latin "substantia," meaning "essence" or "being," derived from "sub-" (under) and "stare" (to stand). It entered Middle English through Old French.

Derivatives

• Substantial (adjective)
• Substantiate (verb)
• Substantive (adjective)
• Substantially (adverb)
• Substantiation (noun)

Synonyms

• Material
• Essence
• Core

Antonyms

• Void
• Absence
• Nothingness

Usage

The term "substance" is often used to refer to physical materials or abstract qualities that define the importance or essence of something. For example, "The wall was made of a sturdy substance" or "Her argument lacked substance."

Related Terms

• Material: The matter from which something is made.
• Essence: The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.
• Composition: The makeup or constitution of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The physical material of which something is made: Refers to tangible matter.
  • Example: "The bottle is made of a glass substance."
• The essential nature or quality of something: Refers to the core or essence of an idea or argument.
  • Example: "The proposal has no substance and is unlikely to be approved."
• A specific chemical or material: Refers to a distinct compound or element.
  • Example: "The scientist analyzed the unknown substance in the lab."