most substantial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most substantial" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is significant, important, or of great value. Example: "The most substantial factor in his success was his unwavering determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

China's increase has been the most substantial.

The New York Times

Quarles's donations were the most substantial.

The Washington Post

Portraiture accounts for the most substantial works here.

The New York Times

This will be the most substantial change since the 1940s".

The Guardian

The most substantial additions unveiled yesterday are underground.

The New York Times

This marks the French luxury company's most substantial American buy.

The New York Times - Style

The most substantial difference is related to the substances involved.

The Guardian

And it could be the most substantial development to date.

The Washington Post

Marius the Epicurean (1885) is his most substantial work.

Britannica

It is certainly the most substantial game for the Wii.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Shake Shack CEO Randy Garutti offered the second-most substantial comments on lunch.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "most substantial", ensure the context clearly defines what aspect (size, importance, impact) is being emphasized. For instance, specify whether you're referring to the "most substantial" financial investment or the "most substantial" change in policy.

Common error

While "most substantial" is technically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "biggest", "largest", or "most significant" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most substantial" primarily functions as a superlative adjective modifying a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes the greatest degree of something, such as size, importance, or impact. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

15%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "most substantial" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that signifies the greatest degree of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It appears most frequently in news and media, science, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey—whether it's related to size, importance, or impact—and choose the most appropriate synonym if a less formal tone is desired. Remember that overusing "most substantial" in everyday conversation can sound unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most significant

Focuses on importance and consequence rather than size or volume.

most considerable

Highlights the amount or degree to which something is worthy of attention.

most important

Emphasizes the value and priority of something.

most material

Stresses the relevance and weight of something.

most appreciable

Focuses on the fact that something is easily perceived or estimated.

most pronounced

Draws attention to the obvious or noticeable nature of something.

most marked

Highlights a clearly visible or defined change or feature.

most outstanding

Implies excellence and superiority above others.

most sizeable

Indicates the greatest physical dimension or extent.

most meaningful

Emphasizes the depth of significance or value attached to something.

FAQs

What does "most substantial" mean?

The phrase "most substantial" means the greatest in size, amount, or importance. It emphasizes significance or magnitude.

How can I use "most substantial" in a sentence?

You can use "most substantial" to describe the most significant part of something, such as, "The "most substantial change" was the increase in funding."

What are some synonyms for "most substantial"?

Synonyms for "most substantial" include "most significant", "most considerable", and "most important". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "most substantial" or "most substantive"?

"Most substantial" refers to size, amount, or impact, while "most substantive" relates to content or essence. Use "most substantial" when referring to quantity or magnitude and "most substantive" when referring to the core content or meaning.