Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Material” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
Physical things like cloth, wood, or plastic used to make something.
Meaning of Material
A substance used for making or building something, such as fabric, wood, or metal.
How to Pronounce Material
IPA: /məˈtɪriəl/ Stress: oOoo
Three syllables: mə-TEER-ē-əl. Stress the second syllable. The final 'l' is soft.
4 Synonyms for Material — Words Similar to Material
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
substance
/ˈsʌbstəns/Any material or matter you can see or touch, like water, metal, or plastic. Also means the most important or main idea of something.
Example: Water is a transparent substance used in many industries.
fabric
/ˈfæbrɪk/Material like cotton or wool used to make clothes. Also means the basic structure or organization of something.
Example: The fabric of the dress is made from high-quality cotton.
matter
/ˈmætər/Something physical you can touch, like wood or metal; or something that is important.
Example: Water and ice are different forms of matter.
element
/ˈɛləmənt/A basic part that something is made of; in chemistry, a pure substance like oxygen or carbon.
Example: Honesty is a key element of a strong friendship.
Smart Synonyms for Material — When to Use Each
substance
For any type of physical matter
fabric
Specifically for cloth or woven materials
How to Use Material and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The designer chose silk as the material for the dress. B1
- What material is this table made from? A2
- The construction company needed more building material. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Material
What is another word for "material"?
Common synonyms for "material" include: substance, fabric, matter, element.
What can I say instead of "material"?
Try one of these alternatives: substance, fabric, matter, element. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "material" formal or informal?
"material" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "material" instead of "substance"?
Use "material" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "substance" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.