substance

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).

“Substance” is pronounced SUHBS-tuhns (/ˈsʌbstəns/ in IPA).

Here is “substance” used in a sentence: “The lab identified an unknown substance on the fabric.”

Words with a similar meaning to “substance” include corporeity, body, mass, material, matter and stuff.

The opposite of “substance” — its antonyms — are nothing, vacuum, void, energy and force.

“Substance” is a noun.

The word “substance” comes from Latin. From Latin substantia, "essence, being" — from substō, "to stand firm, exist," literally "to stand under.".

“Substance” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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.

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.

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.

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.