a substantial form

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial form" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing philosophy, metaphysics, or legal terminology where the concept of form and substance is relevant. Example: "In Aristotelian philosophy, every object has a substantial form that defines its essence and nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"Without a substantial form of debt relief, which looks unlikely in an initial agreement, Greece's debt ratio will remain unsustainably high and the crisis will continue," said Jonathan Loynes, chief European economist at Capital Economics.

The Guardian - Business

A substantial form is the essence of a substance, and it corresponds to a species.

SEP

(1) Aristotle's claim that a substantial form is an individual (tode ti) does not exclude its being a universal (katholou).

SEP

A substantial form, as a primary definable, is its own substance, for it is essentially predicated of itself alone.

SEP

Since it is an essence, a substantial form is what is denoted by the definiens of a definition.

SEP

He outlined a number of reasons why they were jointly opposed to describing the human mind as a substantial form.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

"The local models are very important, but it is clear for basic income to really work, it must be implemented in a more substantial form at a national level," said Nogarin.

Vice

And it is the second sense of 'immaterial' that gives us a key for understanding what Thomas means by a "material form," particularly a material substantial form.

SEP

The innovation of this building was not in the house, where the audience still sat on benches around three sides, but in the attempt to re-create a Roman scaenae frons in a more substantial form.

Britannica

Taken in contrast to the Aristotelian doctrine that each existent has a single substantial form (ensuring its unity as a substance), "the plurality of forms" doctrine describes the Universal Hylomorphic sense in which each existent has a number of essential forms (and matters).

SEP

A universal substantial form just is that essence.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial form" in philosophical or academic writing, ensure you clearly define what 'form' means in your specific context, as its interpretation can vary across different schools of thought.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial form" when you simply mean a physical object or entity. The term refers to an underlying principle or essence, not mere physical presence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial form" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a core concept in philosophical and metaphysical discussions. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correctly used in contexts relating to essence and substance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial form" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that functions as a noun phrase, primarily within philosophical and academic discourse. According to Ludwig AI, its primary purpose is to define the essential nature of something. It maintains a formal register, frequently appearing in science and encyclopedia contexts. When using the phrase, avoid confusing it with mere physical appearance, focusing instead on the underlying principle or essence. Alternatives include ""an essential form"" and "a significant form", but the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant form

Replaces "substantial" with "significant", implying importance or consequence rather than inherent nature.

an essential form

Substitutes "substantial" with "essential", focusing on the necessity or fundamentality of the form.

a considerable form

Replaces "substantial" with "considerable", suggesting the form is noteworthy or large in scope.

a concrete form

Substitutes "substantial" with "concrete", implying the form is tangible and definite.

a material form

Replaces "substantial" with "material", emphasizing the physical or tangible aspect of the form.

a real form

Substitutes "substantial" with "real", emphasizing the genuineness or authenticity of the form.

a tangible form

Replaces "substantial" with "tangible", highlighting the perceivable or touchable quality of the form.

a definite form

Substitutes "substantial" with "definite", highlighting the clear and well-defined character of the form.

a fundamental form

Replaces "substantial" with "fundamental", focusing on the foundational or core nature of the form.

an intrinsic form

Substitutes "substantial" with "intrinsic", suggesting the form is an inherent and essential part of something.

FAQs

How is "a substantial form" used in philosophy?

In philosophy, "a substantial form" typically refers to the essential nature or underlying principle that defines what a thing is. It is commonly used in discussions related to Aristotelian metaphysics and the nature of substance.

What's a simpler way to describe "a substantial form"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an essential form" or "a fundamental form" to convey a similar meaning. However, be mindful of the specific nuances each term carries.

How does "a substantial form" differ from a mere physical form?

"A substantial form" is not just about physical shape or appearance. It denotes the intrinsic nature or essence that makes something what it is, whereas physical form is simply its external configuration.

Where can I find examples of "a substantial form" used in academic texts?

You can find examples of "a substantial form" in philosophical texts, particularly those discussing Aristotle, Aquinas, and their interpretations of metaphysics and ontology. Search scholarly databases for relevant articles and books.