Unsubstantial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unsubstantial

[ˌʌnsəbˈstænʃəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

lack of importance

Not having a solid basis or foundation; lacking in substance or significance.

Synonyms

flimsy, insubstantial, weak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unsubstantial	Used to describe something that lacks physical substance or evidence to support it. The accusations against him were unsubstantial and couldn't hold up in court. The argument presented was unsubstantial and easily dismissed.
insubstantial	Similar to 'unsubstantial', used to describe something that lacks strength, substance, or evidence, but can also refer to something that feels unreal or ghostly. The theories presented in the book were insubstantial and lacked credible sources. The insubstantial nature of the dream left me feeling unsettled.
flimsy	Often used to describe something that is physically weak, poorly made, or easily damaged. The chair was so flimsy that it broke when I sat on it. She gave a flimsy excuse for being late to the meeting.
weak	Describes anything that lacks strength, power, or intensity. Can be used physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. After the illness, he felt too weak to get out of bed. The coffee was weak and had no real flavor.

Examples of usage

The evidence presented was unsubstantial and did not support the argument.
His claims were considered unsubstantial by the experts.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

not real or tangible

Lacking material substance; not real or tangible.

Synonyms

ethereal, immaterial, phantom.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unsubstantial	Used to describe something that lacks substance or solidity. Often refers to things that are not physical or not significant in some way. His arguments were unsubstantial and did not convince anyone. The ghostly figure was unsubstantial and faded away quickly.
ethereal	Describes something that is extremely delicate, light, or otherworldly. Often used for things that seem too perfect for this world. The music had an ethereal quality that moved everyone. She had an ethereal beauty that was almost unreal.
immaterial	Used to describe something that is not important or relevant to the matter at hand. Can also mean lacking physical form. Whether he was late or not is immaterial to the outcome of the meeting. The soul is immaterial and cannot be touched or seen.
phantom	Refers to something that is illusory or not real, often something that cannot be physically touched. Frequently used for ghostly or spectral entities. He chased phantom fears in the dark. The phantom of his past mistakes haunted him constantly.

Examples of usage

The ghostly figure appeared to be unsubstantial and disappeared into thin air.
Her dreams felt unsubstantial and elusive.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'unsubstantial'

The word 'unsubstantial' originated in the early 17th century from the Latin word 'substantialis', meaning 'having substance'. Over time, the prefix 'un-' was added to create the opposite meaning of 'not having substance'. The term has been used in English literature to describe things that lack importance or material substance.