substantive

[suhb-stuhn-tiv]

noun

Grammar.

1. a noun.

2. a pronoun or other word or phrase functioning or inflected like a noun.

adjective

1. Grammar.

   1. pertaining to substantives.

   2. used in a sentence like a noun.

      a substantive adjective.

   3. expressing existence.

      “to be” is a substantive verb.

2. having independent existence; independent.

3. belonging to the real nature or essential part of a thing; essential.

4. real or actual.

5. of considerable amount or quantity.

6. possessing substance; having practical importance, value, or effect.

   substantive issues under discussion.

7. Law.,  pertaining to the rules of right which courts are called on to apply, as distinguished from rules of procedure (adjective ).

8. (of dye colors) attaching directly to the material without the aid of a mordant (adjective ).

substantive

/ ˌsʌbstənˈtaɪvəl, ˈsʌbstəntɪv /

noun

1. grammar a noun or pronoun used in place of a noun

adjective

1. of, relating to, containing, or being the essential element of a thing

2. having independent function, resources, or existence

3. of substantial quantity

4. solid in foundation or basis

5. grammar denoting, relating to, or standing in place of a noun

6. relating to the essential legal principles administered by the courts, as opposed to practice and procedure Compare adjective

7. (of a dye or colour) staining the material directly without use of a mordant

Other Word Forms

• substantively adverb
• substantiveness noun
• nonsubstantive adjective
• nonsubstantiveness noun
• unsubstantive adjective
• substantivally adverb
• substantival adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of substantive¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Late Latin substantīvus, equivalent to Latin substant(ia) substance + -īvus -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of substantive¹

C15: from Late Latin substantīvus, from Latin substāre to stand beneath; see _substance

Example Sentences

Even with the victims and their families becoming more visible, new revelations or information are what drive news cycles and substantively move public opinion.

From BBC

Dietderich, the department spokesman, said agency officials “look forward to reviewing and engaging on substantive comments” after the public comment period ends Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Since the law was a supplementary measure amending the main budget bill, it sidestepped substantive public hearings.

From Los Angeles Times

Zelensky has said he is willing to meet Putin "in any format", but told reporters on Thursday that there was still no sign from Moscow that they "truly intend to engage in substantive negotiations".

From BBC

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously said the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September, unless Israel takes "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza".

From BBC

Related Words

• actual 
• essential 
• existing 
• real