on the substance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the substance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the essential or fundamental aspects of a topic or issue. Example: "The committee's decision was based on the substance of the arguments presented during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's right on the substance".

The New York Times

But on the substance he's dead wrong.

The New York Times

And avoid engaging her on the substance of the messages.

The New York Times

On the substance, I think Joe is right.

The New Yorker

Abandon it to concentrate on the substance of the novel?

The New Yorker

In 1893, he received a patent on the substance.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

where is a constant that depends on the substance.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But on the substance, the law is clearer.

The New York Times

Until the act has been dismissed on the substance of our arguments, we cannot rest easy".

The Guardian

In effect, the vote prevented discussion on the substance of the resolution.

The New York Times

Mr. Gore's proposal was right on the substance and also tactically smart.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the substance", ensure that the context clearly indicates that you are referring to the core or essential aspects of the topic, avoiding superficial details.

Common error

Avoid using "on the substance" when you mean to describe a theoretical concept or idea. "On the substance" refers to the actual, tangible aspects, while "in theory" relates to hypothetical scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the substance" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate a focus on the essential aspects of a topic or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the substance" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to emphasize the core or essential aspects of a topic. Ludwig AI indicates its high frequency and broad applicability across various domains, particularly in news, academic, and scientific contexts. The phrase is grammatically sound and serves to direct attention away from superficial details towards what truly matters. Related phrases such as "regarding the core issue" and "concerning the heart of the matter" offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. When using "on the substance", ensure clarity in emphasizing the key elements and avoid confusion with theoretical considerations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the core issue

Emphasizes the central problem or point under consideration.

concerning the heart of the matter

Highlights the most important or fundamental part of a discussion or situation.

with respect to the essentials

Focuses on the basic and necessary elements.

in terms of the fundamentals

Similar to focusing on the essentials but highlights specific elements.

focusing on the crux

Highlights focusing in the decisive point.

addressing the actual issue

Directly relates to dealing with the tangible aspects.

considering the essence

Involves a deeper thought and reflection of the fundamental nature of something.

pertaining to the meat of the subject

This shifts the focus toward the most filling or significant aspects.

in relation to the key elements

Highlights the most important components of what is being discussed.

looking at the real issue

Focuses on the actual and tangible problems that need to be handled.

FAQs

How can I use "on the substance" in a sentence?

"On the substance" is typically used to indicate a focus on the essential points or core issues of a discussion or argument. For example, "The debate should be "on the substance", not personal attacks".

What's a good alternative to "on the substance"?

Alternatives to "on the substance" include phrases like "regarding the core issue", "concerning the heart of the matter", or "with respect to the essentials", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "on the substance" formal or informal?

The phrase "on the substance" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in professional, academic, and news-related discussions.

What is the difference between "on the content" and "on the substance"?

"On the content" refers to the actual material or information presented, while "on the substance" refers to the core meaning or essential aspects of that material. You focus on the content to understand what is said, and "on the substance" to understand why it matters.