Basic Details
Word: Unsubstantial
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not having solid substance; lacking strength or worth; weak.
Synonyms: Insignificant, flimsy, trivial
Antonyms: Substantial, significant, important
Idioms and Phrases
- Empty as a drum: Used to describe something that is hollow or unsubstantial. Example: "His promises were empty as a drum, lacking any real commitment."
- Paper tigers: Refers to something or someone that appears threatening but is actually unsubstantial or ineffectual. Example: "The company's threats of layoffs were just paper tigers to scare employees into working harder."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The report was filled with unsubstantial claims that lacked evidence to support them.
Example 2: Her argument in the debate seemed unsubstantial, as she could not provide any solid data.
Example 3: Many people find that unsubstantial conversations can feel draining and unproductive.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "substantial" comes from the Latin word "substantialis," which means "pertaining to substance"? The prefix "un-" is added to indicate the opposite, creating the meaning of "not having substance."
Famous Quote
"An opinion without knowledge is like a boat on a dry land." - Thomas Jefferson. This quote reminds us that unsubstantial ideas often lack the foundation of knowledge.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "unsubstantial" mean?
a) Strong and durable
b) Not having solid substance
c) Important and significant
d) Large and heavy
Answer: b) Not having solid substance
2. Which of these is a synonym of "unsubstantial"?
a) Flimsy
b) Hefty
c) Robust
d) Concrete
Answer: a) Flimsy
3. Which word is an antonym of "unsubstantial"?
a) Trivial
b) Insignificant
c) Significant
d) Melancholy
Answer: c) Significant
4. Which sentence uses "unsubstantial" correctly?
a) The unsubstantial cake was enjoyed by everyone at the party.
b) Her unsubstantial remarks did not help the discussion.
c) He bought an unsubstantial car that runs perfectly.
d) The unsubstantial coat kept him very warm.
Answer: b) Her unsubstantial remarks did not help the discussion.
5. Which idiom means something that is unsubstantial?
a) Paper tigers
b) Burning the midnight oil
c) A blessing in disguise
d) Don't count your chickens
Answer: a) Paper tigers
