What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
matter
Example
The matter of the meeting was to discuss the budget for the upcoming quarter. [matter: noun]
Example
It doesn't matter what we do tonight, as long as we have fun. [matter: verb]
Example
Dark matter is believed to make up most of the universe's mass. [matter: noun]
substance
Example
The substance of the cake was rich and chocolatey. [substance: noun]
Example
The book lacked substance and failed to engage the reader. [substance: noun]
Example
The substance of his argument was that we needed to invest more in education. [substance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Matter is more commonly used than substance in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile. Substance is more formal and often used in academic or professional contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between matter and substance?
Substance is more formal than matter and is often used in academic or professional contexts. It implies value or worth and is associated with a serious or intellectual tone.
