Material vs Materiel
What’s the difference between them?
Material
Meaning:
supplies and equipment.
Examples:
1. The architect was considering different materials for the construction of the new building.
2. The artist used a variety of materials to make the sculpture.
3. I need to buy some materials to complete my science project.
Materiel
Meaning:
materials, supplies, or equipment used by military forces.
Examples:
1. Our army is in need of new materiel.
2. Pentagon invested a lot of money in new materiel.
3. We need to acquire more materiel for navy.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Material
1. Substance
2. Element
3. Composition
4. Constitution
5. Fabric
1. Immaterial
2. Non-material
3. Intangible
4. Ethereal
Materiel
1. Army Equipment
2. Military Supplies
3. Military Provisions
1. Demilitarized material
2. Civilian material
3. Non-military material
4. Commercial material
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Material", "Materiel".
1. The word 'material' is commonly used to refer to any items, items, or supplies that can be used to create something else.
2. The word 'materiel' specifically refers to the equipment, supplies, and materials used by military forces.
3. When writing about non-military items, use the word 'material.'
4. When writing about items used exclusively by the military, use the word 'materiel.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word, 'material,' be used?
Material should be used when referring to physical items such as fabrics, paper, or other objects required for construction, or for items which can be bought and sold. For example, if you were setting up a restaurant you would need materials such as cutlery, tablecloths, and kitchenware.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word, 'materiel'?
The word 'materiel' is most commonly used when referring to the supplies, equipment, or apparatus used by military forces. This includes items such as weapons, vehicles, uniforms, and other items which are necessary for a military organization to function.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'material' is pronounced muh-teer-ee-uhl, while the word 'materiel' is pronounced mah-tuh-ree-uhl.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is confusing them, since the spelling is quite similar. Additionally, some people may mistakenly use the word 'material' to refer to military equipment, or they may use 'materiel' to refer to supplies or equipment needed for any purpose. It is important to remember the difference between the two words, as each has a specific meaning and should be used in the correct context.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The army needs a large quantity of ________ to fight in the war.
2. The construction company had to purchase additional __________ in order to complete the project.
3. The store specializes in selling __________ for craft projects.
4. The soldiers received new ____________ for their mission.
5. The shop was filled with all kinds of ____________ for home repairs.
6. The government launched a program to provide __________ to the military.
1. The army needs a large quantity of materiel to fight in the war.
Explanation: The word materiel is used to refer to the supplies, weapons, and equipment required for military operations.
2. The construction company had to purchase additional material in order to complete the project.
Explanation: The word material is used in reference to the items needed for a project, such as wood, nails, paint, etc.
3. The store specializes in selling material for craft projects.
Explanation: The word material is used for items that can be used as a component to create something, such as fabric, yarn, clay, etc.
4. The soldiers received new materiel for their mission.
Explanation: The word materiel is used to refer to the supplies, weapons, and equipment required for military operations.
5. The shop was filled with all kinds of material for home repairs.
Explanation: The word material is used for items that can be used to repair and maintain items, such as tools, nails, screws, etc.
6. The government launched a program to provide materiel to the military.
Explanation: The word materiel is used to refer to the supplies, weapons, and equipment required for military operations.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.