C1adjective2K

Substantial

UK /["/səbˈstænʃl/"]/US /["/səbˈstænʃl/"]/

Definition

large in amount, value or importance

In simple words: Large or important

Examples

  • substantial sums of money
  • a substantial change
  • Substantial numbers of people support the reforms.
  • He ate a substantial breakfast.
  • There are substantial differences between the two groups.
  • Their share of the software market is substantial.
  • We were able to see a substantial improvement.
  • a substantial house
  • a street of substantial Victorian villas

Usage notes

Use 'substantial' when describing something that is significant in size, quantity, or importance. It is appropriate in both spoken and written English but might be too formal for casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'substantial' as 'sub-stand tall' – something that stands out due to its size or importance.

Collocations

  • substantial amount
  • substantial evidence
  • substantial change
  • substantial increase
  • substantial support

Synonyms

  • considerable
  • significant
  • major
  • ample
  • extensive

Antonyms

  • insignificant
  • minor
  • trivial

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'substantive' which has a different meaning.
  • Using in place of 'significant' or 'important' without considering context.
  • Overusing in casual contexts where simpler words like 'big' would fit better.