C1adverbformal2K

Substantially

UK /["/səbˈstænʃəli/"]/US /["/səbˈstænʃəli/"]/

Definition

very much; a lot

In simple words: A lot or greatly; a significant amount.

Examples

  • The costs have increased substantially.
  • The plane was substantially damaged in the crash.
  • The company’s profits have been substantially lower this year.
  • What she says is substantially true.

Usage notes

Use 'substantially' in formal writing or discussions. It's appropriate for academic, business, or legal contexts but may sound overly complex in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'substantially' as 'substantial-ly' — large amounts are typically subtle but significant.

Collocations

  • substantially increase
  • substantially improve
  • substantially higher
  • substantially lower

Synonyms

  • considerably
  • significantly
  • greatly
  • remarkably
  • noticeably

Antonyms

  • slightly
  • marginally

Common mistakes

  • 'Substantial' is confused with 'substantially.'
  • Using 'substantially' in casual contexts incorrectly.
  • Incorrectly using 'substantially' as an adjective.