Words / C1

s-uh-b-STANT-iv/səbˈstæntɪv/

Substantive means having real importance or a solid factual basis: a substantive finding, substantive n. Solid (already in the dictionary) is everyday; adjectives are not a filled cell.

Meaning

Having real importance or a solid factual basis (from solid, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “A substantive finding is a filled n, not packed-hall adjectives.”
• “Solid is already in this course. Real is already in this course. Adjectives are a slogan. A cell is a count. Put the number in; then keep the adjectives if the finding still stands.”

Good to know

Real and important; based on fact. Everyday: solid (already in the dictionary). Adjectives ≠ a filled n.

Near in meaning

substantial, real, material

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