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
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.
Example
The two friends were cut from the same cloth and had a lot in common.
Phrases with material
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'
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.
