What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
material
Example
The dress was made of a soft and lightweight material. [material: noun]
Example
The material used in construction must be strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. [material: adjective]
textile
Example
The textile factory produces a variety of fabrics for clothing and upholstery. [textile: noun]
Example
She studied textile design in college and now creates her own unique fabrics. [textile: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Material is a more common term than textile in everyday language, as it is a broader term that covers a wider range of contexts. Textile is more commonly used in specific industries, such as fashion and home decor.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between material and textile?
Both material and textile can be used in formal and informal contexts, but material is more versatile and can be employed in a wider range of formality levels.
