substantial
/səbˈstænʃl; səb`stænʃəl/ adj
1 large in amount; considerable 数目大的; 可观的
a substantial improvement, decrease 相当大的改善、 缩减
Her contribution to the discussion was substantial. 她在讨论中做了很多工作.
obtain a substantial loan 获得大笔贷款.
2 [usu attrib 通常作定语]
solidly or strongly built or made 坚固的; 结实的
a substantial padlock, chair, wall 结实的挂锁、 椅子、 墙壁.
3 [usu attrib 通常作定语]
owning much property; wealthy 有大量财产的; 富有的
a substantial business, company 殷实的商号、 公司 *substantial farmers 富有的农民.
4 [attrib 作定语]
concerningthe most important part of sth; essential 实质的; 大体上的; 基本的
We are in substantial agreement. 我们的意见基本一致.
5 (fml 文) having physical existence, not merely seen or heard or imagined; real 实际存在的; 实物的; 真实的
Was it something substantial that you saw, or was it a ghost? 你见到的是实物, 还是鬼魂?