What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
commodity
Example
Oil is a valuable commodity that is traded on the global market. [commodity: noun]
Example
The company specializes in trading agricultural commodities like wheat and corn. [commodities: plural noun]
material
Example
Wood is a common material used for building houses. [material: noun]
Example
She bought some fabric materials to make a new dress. [materials: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Material is more commonly used than commodity in everyday language. Material is a versatile term that is widely understood and used in various contexts, while commodity is more specific and commonly used in economic or business-related discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between commodity and material?
Both commodity and material can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, commodity is more commonly associated with formal or professional settings, particularly in the field of economics and finance.
