Something substantial is large in size, number, or amount: If you want to say someone spent a lot of money without being too specific, you could say they spent a substantial amount of money.
The adjective substantial derives from the Latin substantia “substance,” which means “stuff.” A substantial meal is large enough to satisfy hunger. A substantial structure is strongly made or built. And a substantial man possesses wealth and property. Related to this last sense, “a man of substance” refers to a wealthy man with property.
Sure thing, @Tristan! Let’s break down the word “substantial” in detail.
Meaning and Usage
The word “substantial” is an adjective and has several interconnected meanings:
Large in Size, Amount, or Importance:
“Formal”: “The company made a substantial investment in new technology.”
“Informal”: “We had a substantial meal at the restaurant.”
Strongly Built or Made:
“Formal”: “The building is substantial and can withstand severe weather.”
“Informal”: “That’s a pretty substantial table; it won’t break easily.”
Possessing Wealth or Property:
Formal: “He is a man of substantial means.”
Informal: “He’s pretty well-off.”
Examples in Formal and Informal Contexts
Formal:
“The research has provided substantial evidence supporting the hypothesis.”
“There has been a substantial rise in the number of applicants this year.”
Informal:
“That was a substantial burger!”
“She donated a substantial amount to the charity.”
Etymology
The adjective substantial comes from the Latin word substantia, which means “substance” or “stuff”. This origin is linked to the idea of something being solid, real, or of considerable size and importance.
How to Remember “Substantial”
Visual Memory: Think of a large, filling meal as a representation of something substantial.
Connection: Link the word to “substance,” something with weight and importance.
Usage Repetition: Try to use the word in sentences about daily experiences, like describing a heavy meal or an important event.
Summary of Video Examples
Spending Money: “They spent a substantial amount of money.”
Weight Loss: “He lost a substantial amount of weight.”
Personal Qualities: “He’s a really substantial person.”
Remember, the key to mastering vocabulary is consistent practice and incorporating new words into your daily conversations.