substantive response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantive response" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a reply or answer that is meaningful, significant, or provides substantial information. Example: "In order to move forward, we need a substantive response to our proposal by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Regrettably, no substantive response has been forthcoming.

The New York Times

We don't expect a substantive response.

The Washington Post

He has yet to receive a substantive response.

The New Yorker

But officials said Russia had offered no substantive response.

The New York Times

Much of Grimm's substantive response mirrored what was included in the original story.

The New Yorker

Fallin's first substantive response came in 2014, when she encouraged Oklahomans to buy earthquake insurance.

The New Yorker

This is not pornography we're talking about but a substantive response to an alarming human crisis.

The New Yorker

Pointing to pretty charts about the number of EOs is not a serious or substantive response.

The Washington Post

Ms Criado-Perez said she is still awaiting a substantive response.

Independent

While the Robertson report is based on outdated perceptions, the arguments presented merit a substantive response.

The New York Times

And "we have not received a substantive response," Mr. Simon wrote.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantive response" when you want to emphasize that the response is not just a cursory acknowledgement, but a well-considered and informative reply.

Common error

Avoid using "substantive response" to describe a reply that is merely polite or acknowledges receipt of information. A "substantive response" must offer meaningful content or analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive response" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "substantive" modifies the noun "response". It describes the quality or nature of the response as being meaningful and significant. Ludwig's examples show it used to indicate a lack of adequate reply or the expectation of a more in-depth answer.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantive response" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a reply or answer that is meaningful and significant. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples from diverse sources, confirms its widespread usage across news media, academia, and business contexts. While alternatives such as "meaningful answer" or "detailed reply" exist, "substantive response" effectively conveys the expectation of a thorough and well-considered reply, cautioning against superficial or inadequate answers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meaningful answer

Replaces "substantive" with "meaningful", focusing on the quality of the response.

detailed reply

Emphasizes the depth and thoroughness of the response.

comprehensive answer

Highlights the completeness and all-encompassing nature of the response.

thorough response

Focuses on the meticulous and exhaustive nature of the answer.

significant reaction

Shifts the focus to the importance and impact of the response.

in-depth answer

Similar to “detailed reply” but emphasizes the level of analysis.

considerable feedback

Highlights the amount and value of the feedback provided.

weighty reply

Stresses the importance and seriousness of the response.

valuable input

Focuses on the worth and contribution of the response.

serious reply

Focuses on the importance of the response, which should be treated with respect.

FAQs

What does "substantive response" mean?

A "substantive response" refers to a reply or answer that provides meaningful, significant, and considerable information or addresses a topic thoroughly.

What can I say instead of "substantive response"?

You can use alternatives like "meaningful answer", "detailed reply", or "comprehensive answer", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "substantive response"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize that the reply is not just a quick or superficial answer but provides in-depth information, analysis, or a well-thought-out resolution to a problem.

Is "substantive response" formal or informal?

The term "substantive response" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts where a meaningful and significant reply is expected.