The invention relates to novel 9- and/or 10-substituted anthracenes, to their use in liquid crystal, light-emitting or semiconducting materials and devices, in anisotropic polymers, optical, electrooptical, decorative, security, cosmetic, diagnostic, electric, electronic, charge transport, semiconductor, optical recording, electroluminescent, photoconductor or electrophotographic applications, and to liquid crystal, light-emitting and semiconducting materials, polymers and devices comprising them.