a really significant amount

substantial

adjective|/səbˈstæn.ʃəl/

Considerable in importance, size, or worth.

Examples

In a meeting

We've seen a substantial increase in conversions since the redesign.

Over coffee

She left a substantial tip because the service was outstanding.

Why this word

large

Substantial emphasizes importance and significance of size or amount, while large only indicates magnitude

considerable

Substantial suggests solidness and worthiness of attention, while considerable is slightly less emphatic

big

Substantial is formal and implies meaningfulness of quantity, while big is informal and vague

Usage tip

More formal than 'big' or 'a lot'. Implies something is noteworthy and worth paying attention to.

Etymology

Latin substantialis — substantia (substance, essence), from sub (under) + stare (to stand)

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