substantial
What does "substantial" mean?
The word "substantial" describes something that is large in size, value, or importance. Imagine a heavy, solid oak table or a significant, life-changing amount of money; these things are substantial because they have "substance" or weight to them. In usage, it is often employed in professional or academic contexts to emphasize that a change or improvement is not merely superficial, but real and measurable. You might hear it paired with nouns like "increase," "progress," or "evidence" to show that something is worthy of serious attention.
"substantial" in conversation
Discussing a job offer
Did you see the new offer?
Did you see the new offer?
Yes, it includes a substantial raise!
Yes, it includes a substantial raise!
Used here to emphasize that the salary increase is significant enough to be life-changing.
Reviewing project results
We need to show the clients substantial progress by Friday.
We need to show the clients substantial progress by Friday.
Understood, we are putting in the extra hours now.
Understood, we are putting in the extra hours now.
'Substantial progress' suggests that the work done is not just a small task, but a major milestone.
"substantial" in a sentence
The house suffered substantial damage during the storm.
The house suffered substantial damage during the storm.
There is substantial evidence to suggest that the plan will succeed.
There is substantial evidence to suggest that the plan will succeed.
She made a substantial contribution to the charity's research fund.
She made a substantial contribution to the charity's research fund.
