Synonyms for

Materials

Verb / mʌˈtɪri:ʌlz / Another word for materials — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Materials are things that are used to make other things. They can be natural, like wood or cotton, or man-made, like plastic or metal.

Synonyms & similar words

cloth stuff textile fabric material substances components elements ingredients parts supplies wares goods products objects things articles commodities equipment fixtures furnishings gear paraphernalia stuff

Synonyms by register

Formal

substances elements components constituents

Informal

stuff things bits pieces

Literary

essentials fundamentals

Antonyms

unimportant insignificant trivial nonessential superfluous

Common collocations

  • raw materials
  • building materials
  • study materials
  • teaching materials
  • source materials
  • study materials
  • research materials

Word family

noun material
verb materialize
adjective material
adverb materially

Usage note

Can refer to physical substances or abstract concepts. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher handed out materials for the art project.
  2. The construction workers needed a lot of materials to build the new bridge.
  3. Scientists are always discovering new materials that can be used in technology.
  4. The company had to import materials from other countries because they couldn't find what they needed locally.
  5. My mom bought me a new backpack made from recycled materials.

Quotes

  • The best materials are those that lie closest to hand. The most expensive is that which is not used.
  • I do not make films primarily for children. I make them for the child in all of us, whether we be six or sixty. Call the child 'innocence'. The worst of us is not without innocence, although buried deeply it might be. In my work I try to reach and speak to that innocence, showing it the fun and joy of living; showing it that laughter is healthy; showing it that the human species, although happily ridiculous at times, is still reaching for the stars.
  • The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.

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