What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heavy
Example
The box was too heavy for me to carry alone. [heavy: adjective]
Example
The rain was so heavy that it flooded the streets. [heavy: adjective]
Example
She felt heavy with grief after her loss. [heavy: adverb]
substantial
Example
The company made a substantial profit this quarter. [substantial: adjective]
Example
The table is made of substantial oak wood. [substantial: adjective]
Example
Her research made a substantial contribution to the field. [substantial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Heavy is more commonly used than substantial in everyday language, especially when referring to physical objects. Substantial is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts when referring to abstract concepts or achievements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heavy and substantial?
Substantial is generally considered more formal than heavy, as it is often used in academic or professional settings to describe important contributions or achievements.
