Substances Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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substances
[ˈsʌbstənsɪz ]
Definitions
chemical compounds
Substances are defined as any material with a definite chemical composition. They can be classified into elements, compounds, and mixtures. Substances can undergo physical and chemical changes.
Synonyms
compounds, elements, materials.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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substances |
This term is used in a general sense to refer to any kind of material, whether they are solid, liquid, or gas. It can be used in everyday life or in scientific contexts to talk about different types of materials.
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materials |
This term is used broadly to describe the physical substances or matter used in making or doing things. It is frequently used in industrial, construction, and manufacturing settings.
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compounds |
Used mainly in chemistry, this term refers to substances formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. Compounds have specific properties and a fixed composition.
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elements |
In science and chemistry, elements are pure substances that consist of only one type of atom. Elements cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
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Examples of usage
- The laboratory is studying the properties of different substances.
- Water is a common substance found on Earth.
drugs or medications
Substances can also refer to drugs or medications used for therapeutic purposes. They can be natural or synthetic compounds that affect the body in various ways.
Synonyms
drugs, medications, pharmaceuticals.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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substances |
Used in a general sense to refer to any material with specific properties, or more specifically in contexts involving chemistry or illicit use.
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drugs |
Commonly used to refer to both medicinal and recreational compounds, often with a negative connotation when referring to illegal use.
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medications |
Refers specifically to substances used for medical treatment, especially those prescribed by healthcare professionals.
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pharmaceuticals |
Used in a professional or industry context, referring to manufactured medicinal drugs.
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Examples of usage
- The athlete was banned from competition for using illegal substances.
- Doctors prescribe different substances to treat various medical conditions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, substances are classified as either elements (like oxygen) or compounds (like water).
- The physical properties of a substance, such as boiling point and density, can change under different conditions.
- Understanding substances and their interactions is fundamental in fields like medicine, environmental science, and materials engineering.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'substances' is often used in movies and shows to refer to various elements of weighty themes, such as drugs or magic.
- In music, songs often touch upon 'substances' to symbolize deeper emotional states, representing the highs and lows of life.
- Popular science documentaries frequently explore how substances interact in nature, affecting everything from climate change to health.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Aristotle discussed substances as the fundamental entities of reality, which have properties and can change.
- In modern metaphysics, the debate around what constitutes a 'substance' raises questions about identity and existence.
- Substances in philosophy often relate to ideas about perception, as they may exist independently of human observation.
Psychology
- In psychological contexts, 'substances' can refer to psychoactive drugs that alter mood, perception, or behavior.
- Substance use can lead to various mental health issues, emphasizing the need for understanding their effects.
- Researchers study how different substances affect the brain, influencing everything from emotion to decision making.
Origin of 'substances'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'substance' comes from the Latin word 'substantia', meaning 'that which stands under' or 'essence'.
- In philosophy, 'substance' refers to the underlying reality that supports qualities or properties.
- The term has evolved in meaning from ancient times, originally tied to the physical form of objects.
The word 'substances' originated from the Latin word 'substantia', meaning 'essential nature'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to material of a particular kind. Over time, its usage expanded to include chemical compounds and medications.
See also: substantial, substantiality, substantially, unsubstantial.