The word "substance" is spelled as /ˈsʌbstəns/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "sub" is pronounced as /sʌb/ and the second syllable "stance" is pronounced as /stəns/. The reason behind the spelling of "substance" is that it originates from the Latin word "substantia" which means "essence" or "material". This word was then adopted into English with its original spelling in the 14th century and has remained unchanged since.
Substance refers to the material or matter that something is made of. It can be described as the fundamental essence or physical nature of an object. Substance is often used to describe something that is tangible and can be perceived by the senses.
In a general sense, substance can refer to any solid, liquid, or gas that possesses mass and occupies space. It can include elements, compounds, mixtures, or even composite materials. For example, wood, water, and air are all considered substances.
In a more abstract sense, substance can also be used to describe the quality or nature of something. It can refer to the essence or true nature of a person or thing that differentiates it from others. For instance, a person with ethical principles and integrity may be described as having substance.
Furthermore, substance can also refer to the content or essential meaning of a statement, argument, or piece of writing. It implies that something meaningful or relevant is being expressed, as opposed to mere empty words or superficial ideas.
In philosophical discourse, substance has been extensively discussed and debated. It has been seen as the underlying reality or essence that gives coherence and identity to objects or beings. Philosophers such as Aristotle and Descartes delved into this concept to understand the nature of reality and existence.
Overall, substance encompasses various physical, tangible, and intangible aspects. It is a versatile term that can refer to the material, composition, essence, or quality of something, depending on the context in which it is used.
• Matter, stuff, material.
• Substance.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The essence or material of a thing; the main part; that which really exists; body; something real or solid; goods; wealth; means of living.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "substance" originated from Latin "substantia", derived from the combination of the prefix "sub-" (meaning "under" or "below") and the word "stare" (meaning "to stand"). "Substantia" originally referred to the essence, nature, or underlying reality of something that stands under or supports its existence. The term was later adopted into Old French as "substance" and eventually made its way into English around the 14th century with the same meaning.