What is substantial? Pronunciation and usage in English

substantial means . Learn how to pronounce and use substantial through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of substantial

substantialadjective

/səbˈstanʃl/
Definition & pronunciation of substantial

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "substantial" in English. It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is typically broken into three syllables: sub - STA - bəl

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • sub: Pronounced like "sub" as in "subway." Short and quick.
  • STA: This is the key part. It's pronounced like "STA" in "station." It's a clear, strong "ah" sound. It's not like "stat" (as in statue).
  • bəl: This is a schwa sound (the "uh" sound). It's a very relaxed vowel. It's almost silent, but you need to include it. Think of it like the "a" in "about."

3. Putting it together:

So, it sounds roughly like: sub - STA - bəl (with a quick "sub," a clear "STA," and a relaxed "bəl").

4. Tips & Considerations:

  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the second syllable, "STA."
  • Don't over-emphasize the "bəl": It's a very subtle sound.
  • Rhyme: You can think of it as rhyming with "stall" (but remember, the "STA" is different!).

Resources for Hearing It:

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Usage and examples with the word substantial in English

Let's break down how to use the word "substantial" in English. It's a versatile word that can mean quite a few things, so understanding the context is key.

1. Core Meaning: Large in Size, Amount, or Importance

At its most basic, "substantial" means significant or considerable. It suggests something is not small or insignificant.

  • Size/Quantity: “The package contained a substantial amount of food.” (Meaning: a lot of food)
  • Amount: “He received a substantial bonus at work.” (Meaning: a large bonus)
  • Weight: “The climber carried a substantial backpack.” (Meaning: a heavy backpack)

2. More Specific Uses & Nuances:

Here’s where it gets a bit more detailed:

  • Regarding Evidence/Arguments: “The lawyer presented substantial evidence to support his client’s case.” (Meaning: strong and convincing evidence – more than just a little.)
  • Regarding Impact/Effect: “The new policy will have a substantial impact on the company.” (Meaning: a significant or important effect.)
  • Regarding Buildings/Structures: “They built a substantial office building.” (Meaning: a large and impressive building.)
  • Regarding Character/Personality: “He’s a substantial individual; he’s reliable and hardworking." (Meaning: someone with a strong, reliable character – not frivolous or superficial.) This is less common than the other uses.
  • Regarding Financial Matters: “The company has a substantial debt.” (Meaning: a large amount of debt.)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

Knowing synonyms can help you choose the best word for your context:

  • Significant: Often a good substitute when talking about impact or importance.
  • Large: Simple and direct for size or quantity.
  • Considerable: Similar to substantial, implying something noteworthy.
  • Notable: Especially good when referring to events or achievements.
  • Important: Useful when talking about the value or relevance of something.
  • Substantial: Can sometimes be replaced with “considerable” or “significant.”

4. Common Phrases & Constructions:

  • "A substantial amount of..." (e.g., “A substantial amount of research”)
  • "Substantial change" (e.g., “There was a substantial change in the company’s strategy.”)
  • "Substantial reason" (e.g., “There was a substantial reason for his decision.”)

5. Important Note on Tone:

"Substantial" can sometimes sound a bit formal or even slightly pompous if used excessively. It's generally a strong word, so use it when you genuinely want to emphasize something’s significance.

Example Sentences to Illustrate Different Uses:

  • Size: “The antique desk was made of substantial oak.”
  • Quantity: “She donated a substantial sum to the charity.”
  • Evidence: "The police found substantial forensic evidence at the scene."
  • Impact: "The new law will have a substantial effect on employment rates."

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "substantial" in? (e.g., writing an essay, giving a presentation, speaking conversationally?)
  • Can you provide a sentence where you’re considering using the word?

Synonyms for the word substantial

Practice with vocabulary substantial

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project requires a __________ amount of funding to ensure its successful completion.
  2. Despite their disagreements, the two parties found a __________ common ground for negotiation.
  3. The research provided __________ evidence to support the new hypothesis.
  4. Employees are expected to show __________ commitment to the company's long-term goals.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (multiple correct answers may be possible)

  1. The company reported a __________ growth in its market share this quarter, largely due to successful marketing campaigns. a) insignificant b) considerable c) trivial d) substantial e) marginal

  2. Effective project management often requires making __________ adjustments to the timeline as new challenges arise. a) minor b) superficial c) incremental d) negligible e) significant

  3. The research findings provide __________ evidence to support the proposed theory. a) flimsy b) compelling c) robust d) substantial e) anecdotal

  4. To achieve a truly __________ impact, our efforts must extend beyond mere symbolic gestures. a) superficial b) profound c) deep-seated d) meaningful e) cosmetic

  5. After the merger, the new entity faced the challenge of integrating two different corporate cultures, which required a __________ effort. a) trivial b) Herculean c) colossal d) substantial e) trifling

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The recent policy changes have led to a significant improvement in employee morale. (Rewrite the sentence using "substantial" or a related word form.)

  2. The committee members noted that the proposed budget reduction was quite large and would affect many departments. (Rewrite the sentence using "substantial" or a related word form.)

  3. The team's success in the project was largely due to her unwavering dedication and hard work. (Rewrite the sentence; do not use "substantial," but use a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. substantial
  2. reasonable
  3. substantial
  4. unwavering

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) considerable, d) substantial
  2. c) incremental, e) significant
  3. b) compelling, c) robust, d) substantial
  4. b) profound, c) deep-seated, d) meaningful
  5. b) Herculean, c) colossal, d) substantial

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The recent policy changes have led to a substantial improvement in employee morale.
  2. The committee members noted that the proposed budget reduction was substantial and would affect many departments.
  3. The team's success in the project was largely due to her exceptional dedication and hard work.

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