What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
greed
Example
His greed for money led him to make unethical decisions. [greed: noun]
Example
She was accused of being greedy and taking advantage of her employees. [greedy: adjective]
materialism
Example
The rise of materialism in modern society has led to a decline in traditional values. [materialism: noun]
Example
He was criticized for his materialistic lifestyle and obsession with luxury goods. [materialistic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Materialism is more commonly used than greed in everyday language, as it is a broader concept that encompasses various aspects of consumerism and societal values. Greed is a more specific and extreme term that is less commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between greed and materialism?
Both greed and materialism are generally considered informal terms, although they can be used in formal contexts when appropriate. However, materialism may be more acceptable in certain formal contexts, such as academic or philosophical discussions, due to its broader and more nuanced meaning.
