Insubstantial (Adjective)

Meaning ¹

Lacking material form or substance; unreal; "as insubstantial as a dream"; "an insubstantial mirage on the horizon".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Synonyms

• Unsubstantial
• Unreal

Antonyms

• Substantial

Related Words

• Insubstantiality (noun)

Meaning ²

Lacking solidity or strength; "a flimsy table"; "flimsy construction"; "vinyl siding has become the standard-bearer for cheap, insubstantial construction".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The bridge's insubstantial foundation made it prone to collapse during strong winds.
• The new employee's insubstantial knowledge of the company's policies hindered her performance.
• The old, insubstantial door creaked loudly as it swung open.
• Critics argued that the movie's insubstantial plot was overshadowed by its impressive visual effects.
• The company's insubstantial financial backing made it difficult to secure investors for the project.

Synonyms

• Flimsy

Meaning ³

Lacking in nutritive value; "an insubstantial and unsatisfying meal".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The insubstantial snack bar offered only a limited selection of sugary treats and empty calories.
• Eating insubstantial foods throughout the day left her feeling lethargic and unenergized by evening.
• Critics of fast food claim that the insubstantial nature of such meals is directly linked to various health problems.
• Many parents are worried that the school cafeteria is serving insubstantial lunches that lack essential nutrients.
• She eventually stopped ordering salads from the local restaurant after realizing they were little more than insubstantial bowls of mostly lettuce.