1
as in potential
the basic elements from which something can be developed many thought that the mayor's speech lacked substance because specific proposals for solving the city's problems were few

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2
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4
as in object
one that has a real and independent existence the question of whether the soul is a substance entirely independent of the body

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of substance Nowhere has the social and economic impact been more acutely felt than in Portland, a proudly progressive, mid-sized city of more than 600,000 that not long ago was one the most desirable places to live in the country, despite stubbornly high rates of unsheltered homelessness and substance abuse. Jason Motlagh, Rolling Stone, 27 Apr. 2025 Roman reportedly battled substance issues in her early years before devoting herself to Christianity in 1973. Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 26 Apr. 2025 Lion’s mane and cannabis are two natural substances gaining attention for their unique health benefits and diverse uses. Tribune Content Agency, Mercury News, 24 Apr. 2025 But the same things that prevent parents from maintaining employment or housing — especially substance abuse and mental illness — often inhibit them from engaging in services, while also diminishing their ability to protect and care for their children. Emily Putnam-Hornstein and Naomi Schaefer Riley, Twin Cities, 13 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for substance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for substance
Noun
  • As Pluto retrogrades in Aquarius, the potential for shocking revelations is at its peak.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 3 May 2025
  • Putting any more pressure on myself won’t help me to extract more potential out of myself.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 2 May 2025
Noun
  • In essence, sunlight collected with Psyche's large solar arrays gets converted into electricity, which then powers up the spacecraft's four thrusters.
    Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 1 May 2025
  • In essence, different threads coming together to create something meaningful and strong.
    Kissa Castaneda, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Noun
  • Trump argues his tariff policy will generate vast wealth for the country, allowing tax rates to drop even further.
    Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Naomi Girma has played just over 100 minutes for the team across three matches but has a wealth of experience in big games.
    Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The ring both reveals the existence of the background object and magnifies it.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Do not approach water, wet objects, or metal items.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 25 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Bulging at the seams, more than 300 artworks spanning a six-decade career engage the full range of materials and techniques that Asawa employed including her signature looped-wire sculptures.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • Strong lines that team up to form geometric designs, metallic accents, luxe materials like marble and velvet, and eye-catching ornamentation are certainly part of the style's foundation, true.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 May 2025
Noun
  • Agassi said he was originally drawn to pickleball because of its social, inclusive nature.
    Todd Boss, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • Russia-Ukraine peace report card: C Experts are divided on the progress of negotiations, especially due to their secretive nature.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 3 May 2025
Noun
  • In the complaint, Aaron asks that neither party be awarded alimony and that both parties' community assets and debts are in accordance with Nevada law.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The dots represented arts organizations, creative businesses, studios, galleries, performance venues, and cultural and historic assets.
    Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • What to Know During Wednesday's oral arguments, Gorsuch invoked Lebron v. National Railroad Passenger Corporation, a 1995 decision that established when a private entity could be considered a state actor.
    Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025
  • Kerns manages multiple entities, including CDK Fund I, CDK Fund II, Legacy Fund 3, and the CDK Series PE Fund.
    Rhiannon Frater, USA Today, 1 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Substance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/substance. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

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