Translation guide
The English word "substance" has several distinct meanings. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean physical material, essential content, importance, or reality.
Referring to a type of matter, material, or stuff with physical properties.
The most common and general term for a physical substance, used in science and everyday contexts.
この物質は水に溶けやすい。
This substance dissolves easily in water.
有害な物質が検出された。
A harmful substance was detected.
A very general word for 'thing' or 'stuff'. Can be used for substances in casual contexts, but is less precise than 物質.
この白い物は何ですか？
What is this white substance?
Refers to a physical object or body, often with a defined shape. Used in physics or when emphasizing the object rather than the material.
その物体は空中に浮いていた。
The substance was floating in the air.
Referring to the most important ideas, facts, or meaning of something, as opposed to its form or superficial aspects.
The content or substance of a speech, document, discussion, etc. Emphasizes what is actually said or written.
彼の話は内容がなかった。
His speech lacked substance.
報告書の内容を確認してください。
Please check the substance of the report.
The real substance or essence, often contrasted with appearance or formality. Implies something substantial and meaningful.
Literally 'contents' or 'insides'. Used metaphorically for the substance or real meaning of something, often in contrast to appearance.
Describing something as having importance, weight, or being meaningful.
Directly means 'importance'. Use when 'substance' means 'significance'.
この問題は重要性が高い。
This issue has great substance.
An adjective phrase meaning 'substantial' or 'meaningful'. Often used to describe discussions, work, or relationships.
実のある議論ができた。
We had a discussion of substance.
Literally 'weight', used figuratively for substance, gravity, or significance.
Referring to something that is real, tangible, or has actual existence, as opposed to being imaginary or illusory.
The actual substance or entity; the real thing. Often used in philosophical or technical contexts.
その噂には実体がない。
The rumor has no substance.
A sense of reality or substance. Often used when something feels real or credible.
When 'substance' means importance or meaningful content, do not use 物質 (physical substance). Choose 内容, 実質, or 重要性 depending on the nuance.
内容 refers to the actual content or details (e.g., of a speech). 実質 emphasizes the real essence or substance as opposed to superficial form. 実質 is often used in phrases like 実質的に (in substance) or 実質がない (lacking substance).
その計画は実質が伴っていない。
The plan lacks substance.
His proposal lacks substance.
His words have substance.
彼の計画は現実味に欠ける。
His plan lacks substance.