What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
material
Example
The material used in this dress is very soft and comfortable. [material: noun]
Example
The artist used various materials such as paint, clay, and wood to create the sculpture. [materials: plural noun]
medium
Example
The writer chose the medium of poetry to express their emotions. [medium: noun]
Example
The artist used oil paint as a medium for this painting. [medium: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Material is more commonly used than medium in everyday language, especially in technical or manufacturing contexts. Medium is more commonly used in artistic or creative contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between material and medium?
Both material and medium can be used in formal or informal contexts, but material is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
