material

[məˈtɪərɪəl]

material Definition

• 1. the matter from which a thing is or can be made
• 2. information or ideas for use in creating a book, article, or other work
• 3. relevant facts or details

Using material: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "material" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The dress was made of a soft, silky material.

• Example

  The author gathered material for her next book by interviewing experts in the field.

• Example

  The detective was looking for any material that could help solve the case.

• Example

  The company donated building materials to the construction project.

material Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for material

• substance
• stuff
• fabric
• textile
• medium

Antonyms for material

• immaterial
• spiritual

Idioms Using material

• material world

  the physical world and its possessions, as opposed to spiritual or intellectual things

  Example

  He was so focused on the material world that he forgot about the importance of relationships.

• make a mountain out of a molehill

  to exaggerate a small problem and make it seem much bigger than it really is

  Example

  Don't make a mountain out of a molehill - it's just a minor issue with the material.

• cut from the same cloth

  to have similar characteristics or qualities

  Example

  The two friends were cut from the same cloth and had a lot in common.

Phrases with material

• raw material

  basic substances or materials that are used in the production of goods

  Example

  The factory imports raw materials from different countries.

• study material

  materials such as books, notes, and recordings that are used for studying a particular subject

  Example

  The university provides study materials for all its students.

• source material

  original materials or documents that are used as a basis for research or creative work

  Example

  The writer used diaries and letters as source material for her novel.

Origins of material

from Latin 'materia', meaning 'timber, substance'

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Summary: material in Brief

The term 'material' [məˈtɪərɪəl] refers to the matter from which something is made, information or ideas for creating a work, or relevant facts or details. It can refer to substances like fabric or building materials, or intangible things like study materials or source materials. Idioms like 'material world' contrast the physical and spiritual realms, while 'make a mountain out of a molehill' means to exaggerate a small problem. 'Cut from the same cloth' means to share similar qualities.