- To substantiate is to prove a claim to be true or back up a claim with evidence.
When you do a research project to prove a scientific theory, this is an example of a situation where you substantiate the theory.
transitive verb substantiated, substantiating
- to give substance or true existence to
- to give concrete form or body to; convert into substance; embody
- to show to be true or real by giving evidence; prove; confirm
Origin: from Modern Latin substantiatus, past participle of substantiare from Classical Latin substantia, substance
Related Forms:
- substantiation noun
- substantiative adjective
- substantiator noun
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
transitive verb sub·stan·ti·at·ed, sub·stan·ti·at·ing, sub·stan·ti·ates
- To support with proof or evidence; verify: substantiate an accusation. See Synonyms at confirm.
- a. To give material form to; embody.b. To make firm or solid.
- To give substance to; make real or actual.
Origin: New Latin substantiāre, substantiāt-, from Latin substantia, substance; see substance.
Related Forms:
- sub·stanˌti·aˈtion noun