What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cotton
Example
I prefer to wear cotton shirts in the summer because they are breathable. [cotton: noun]
Example
The dress is made of 100% cotton fabric. [cotton: adjective]
material
Example
We need to buy some building materials for the renovation project. [material: noun]
Example
The dress is made of a silky material that feels nice on the skin. [material: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Material is more commonly used than cotton in everyday language since it covers a wider range of substances and products. However, cotton is still widely used in the fashion and textile industry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cotton and material?
Both cotton and material can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific usage and context. However, material may be more versatile and adaptable to different formality levels due to its broader meaning.
