What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
substrate
Example
The bacteria grew on the substrate of agar in the petri dish. [substrate: noun]
Example
The enzyme binds to the substrate to catalyze the chemical reaction. [substrate: noun]
substance
Example
Water is a substance that is essential for life. [substance: noun]
Example
The police found a suspicious substance in the suspect's bag. [substance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Substance is more commonly used than substrate in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts. However, substrate is more commonly used in scientific and technical contexts where precision and specificity are important.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between substrate and substance?
Substrate is typically associated with a more technical and scientific tone, while substance can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
