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material

[məˈtɪərɪəl]

material Definition

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

Antonyms for material

Idioms Using material

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

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

    Example

    The factory imports raw materials from different countries.

  • 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.

  • 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.

How do native speakers use this expression?