If you are referring to the "essence" as the fundamental nature or core of something:
* Superficiality: This emphasizes the opposite of depth and focuses on the surface level.
* Non-essential: This directly contrasts with the idea of something being fundamental or necessary.
* Circumstance: This focuses on the external factors rather than the inherent nature.
If you are referring to "essence" as a concentrated extract or distillate:
* Dilution: This refers to the process of making something less concentrated.
* Impurity: This indicates the presence of unwanted components in a substance.
* Whole: This contrasts with the idea of a concentrated extract and refers to the complete, unrefined substance.
To determine the most appropriate antonym, consider the specific meaning of "essence" in your context.