Substance Meaning in English
word
Definition
A substance is a particular kind of material or matter, such as a liquid, powder, or chemical. It can also mean the real meaning, value, or importance of something, not just its appearance.
Usage & Nuances
Common in science and formal writing for physical materials: 'a dangerous substance', 'chemical substance'. In more abstract use, 'with substance' means meaningful or serious, while 'lack substance' means shallow or unsupported. Don't confuse it with 'material': 'substance' often sounds more technical or abstract.
Example Sentences
Water is a substance that has no color.
basic
Police found a strange substance in the bag.
basic
Her idea has substance, not just style.
basic
The report sounds impressive, but it doesn't have much substance.
natural
Be careful with that cleaning liquid—it's a strong substance.
natural
We need a speaker with real substance, not someone who just talks well.
natural