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

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

"We have clear directives and priorities: safeguarding Ukrainian interests, ensuring substantive dialogue, and advancing on the basis of the progress achieved in Geneva," Umerov wrote on X.

Read more on Barron's

These findings suggest voter judgments regarding candidate conduct remain substantive and consequential to electoral outcomes.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A spokesman for Li Ning said the company “has not engaged in any substantive negotiations or evaluations regarding the transaction mentioned in the news,” in emailed comments.

Read more on MarketWatch

“As of now, the company has not engaged in any substantive negotiations or evaluations regarding the transaction mentioned in the news,” it said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

After holding initial meetings, he planned to conduct more substantive engagements with the delegation on Tuesday, the officials said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• actual 
• essential 
• existing 
• real