Substantially Meaning

UK /səbˈstænʧəli/
US /səbˈstænʧəli/
Word Definition
substantially meaning

Substantially Definition & Usage

adverb

To a great or significant extent or degree, indicating a notable change, impact, or difference.

Examples

  • "The project has substantially increased in scope over the last few months."
  • "The company’s revenue has substantially grown since the new product launch."
  • "Substantially more people attended the event this year than last year."
  • "Her health has substantially improved after the treatment."
  • "The cost of living has substantially risen in the last decade."
adverb

In legal or formal contexts, used to mean that something is largely true or effective, though not entirely without exception.

Examples

  • "The terms of the agreement were substantially upheld by the court."
  • "The new regulations substantially mirror the old ones, with only a few modifications."
  • "The two versions of the policy are substantially the same, except for the deadline."
  • "Substantially all of the project’s funds have been allocated to the development phase."
  • "The defendant’s actions were substantially in line with the law, though not perfectly."

Cultural Context

The word 'substantially' has its roots in Latin, where 'substantialis' referred to something essential or of substance. Over time, the word evolved to denote significant or meaningful changes, whether in terms of quantity, degree, or impact.

The Great Transformation

Story

The Great Transformation

The town of Riverton had always been a quiet, modest place. Its streets were narrow, the buildings old, and the economy stagnant. But everything changed when the town council approved a plan for renovation—a project that would substantially transform the entire community. At first, people were skeptical. It seemed too ambitious. Would the improvements truly make a difference, or would it just be a lot of effort for a small, cosmetic change? On the first day of construction, Jake, the town’s mayor, stood on the corner of Main Street, watching as the bulldozers began tearing down the old buildings. 'It’s going to take time,' he said to Sarah, his assistant, 'but when we’re done, the town will be substantially different. Not just in looks, but in spirit.' By the end of the year, the transformation was remarkable. New shops opened, bringing in fresh businesses. The parks were rejuvenated, and public spaces became hubs of activity. The town didn’t just look better; it felt better. The streets were full of life, and even the locals, who had once been doubtful, now spoke with pride about their hometown. 'It’s like Riverton has been reborn,' Sarah remarked during a town meeting. 'We’ve substantially improved everything.' But the changes weren’t just physical. The town’s economy, once stagnant, had substantially grown. New jobs had been created, and the local market saw a dramatic rise in trade. The renovations had not only made Riverton more beautiful but had also revitalized the community's social and economic fabric. The project wasn’t perfect. There were hiccups along the way. Some residents still wished certain parts had been handled differently. But overall, the progress was clear. In the end, the mayor’s prediction had come true: Riverton had been substantially transformed, and the people could now look forward to a brighter future.

The Great Transformation