What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extraneous
Example
The professor asked the students to remove any extraneous information from their essays. [extraneous: adjective]
Example
The company decided to cut extraneous expenses to save money. [extraneous: adjective]
immaterial
Example
The minor errors in the report were immaterial and did not affect the overall findings. [immaterial: adjective]
Example
The witness's testimony was deemed immaterial to the case and was not considered. [immaterial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Immaterial is more commonly used than extraneous in everyday language, but both words are useful for dismissing or disregarding certain information or details.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extraneous and immaterial?
Extraneous is more formal than immaterial, making it more suitable for academic or professional contexts.
