substance
16 antonyms and opposites of substance, grouped by meaning.
Noun — A particular kind of physical matter with distinct properties.
Antonyms
How to use substance
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin substantia, "essence, being" — from substō, "to stand firm, exist," literally "to stand under."
Full origin of substance →Frequently asked questions
What does “substance” mean?
The word “substance” means a particular kind of physical matter with distinct properties. In plain terms, physical material, or figuratively, the real, meaningful core of something (like an argument).
How do you pronounce “substance”?
“Substance” is pronounced SUHBS-tuhns (/ˈsʌbstəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “substance” in a sentence?
Here is “substance” used in a sentence: “The lab identified an unknown substance on the fabric.”
What is another word for “substance”?
Words with a similar meaning to “substance” include corporeity, body, mass, material, matter and stuff.
What is the opposite of “substance”?
The opposite of “substance” — its antonyms — are nothing, vacuum, void, energy and force.
What part of speech is “substance”?
“Substance” is a noun.
Where does the word “substance” come from?
The word “substance” comes from Latin. From Latin substantia, "essence, being" — from substō, "to stand firm, exist," literally "to stand under.".
Is “substance” a common word?
“Substance” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between 'substance' and 'material'?
Both can refer to physical matter, but 'substance' emphasizes a specific kind of matter with distinct properties, such as a chemical substance. 'Material' is broader and often refers to matter used to make or build something, such as raw materials.
What is the difference between 'substance' and 'essence'?
In the abstract sense, 'substance' means the essential or most important part of something, as in 'the substance of an argument.' 'Essence' is similar but stresses the intrinsic nature that makes something what it is; substance leans toward meaningful content, essence toward core identity.
When is an argument said to 'lack substance'?
An argument lacks substance when it has little meaningful content, evidence, or importance behind it. Here 'substance' refers to the essential, worthwhile part rather than physical matter.
Why are drugs sometimes called 'substances'?
The word draws on the sense of 'substance' as a distinct kind of physical matter with particular properties. Terms like 'controlled substance' and 'substance use' apply this neutral, matter-based meaning to chemicals that affect the body.