sum and substance

noun

: the general or basic meaning of something said or written
the sum and substance of an argument

Examples of sum and substance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Marks also told the [officer], in sum and substance, that tomorrow — that is, July 14, 2023 — would mark one month since her friend died. Brenton Blanchet, Peoplemag, 15 July 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Sum and substance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sum%20and%20substance. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

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