formal
1
: important, real, or meaningful
substantive issues/matters
These changes are more symbolic than substantive.
No substantive changes were made to the document.
2
: supported by facts or logic
substantive arguments
There is no substantive reason to change the law.
Cite this Entry
“Substantive.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/substantive. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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