Substance: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when talking about a specific kind of matter with uniform properties. Can be abstract or physical.

• The medicine contains a substance that can alleviate pain.
• This policy lacks substance.

Ideal for referring to what something is made of, especially in a physical context.

• The sofa is made from high-quality material.
• The construction material arrived late.

Best used when referring to a chemical substance made of two or more elements bonded together.

• Water is a compound consisting of hydrogen and oxygen.
• The scientists discovered a new organic compound.

Appropriate when discussing a pure chemical substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances. Also used metaphorically.

• Gold is a precious element.
• Trust is an important element of any relationship.

Duplicate of the first entry; use the above definition and examples.

Commonly refers to a medication prescribed by doctors or an illegal substance consumed for its effects.

• The doctor prescribed a new drug for my high blood pressure
• Some people use drugs recreationally, which can be dangerous

Used to describe substances, often prescribed for pain relief, but also refers to illegal drugs that can cause addiction.

• Narcotics are often necessary for managing severe pain after surgery
• The rise in narcotic abuse is a serious public health concern

Refers specifically to substances that are prohibited by law due to their potential for abuse or harm.

• The police found illegal substances in the suspect's car
• Using illegal substances can lead to severe legal consequences

Used when talking about the physical matter of which a thing consists or a fundamental, meaningful aspect of something.

• The substance of the report was very informative.
• Water is a substance found in nature.

Used to describe the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract.

• The essence of freedom is choice.
• Love is the essence of a happy marriage.

Used when referring to the central or most important part of something.

• At the core of the problem is inequality.
• The Earth's core is incredibly hot.

Used when talking about the inherent or essential qualities of something or someone.

• It's in her nature to be kind.
• Understanding the nature of the universe is a fundamental goal of science.