Material vs. Materially

Attribute	Material	Materially
Definition	Physical substance that things can be made from	Related to matter or physical things
Usage	Commonly used in the context of manufacturing and construction	Used in philosophical or abstract discussions
Examples	Wood, metal, plastic	Existence, reality, existence
Origin	Middle English: from Old French, from Latin materialis, from materia 'matter'	Derived from Middle English: from Old French, from Latin materialiter, from materia 'matter'

Definition

Material and materially are two words that are often confused due to their similar spellings and meanings. Material is an adjective that refers to something that is physical or tangible, while materially is an adverb that means significantly or substantially. While material describes the nature of something, materially describes the extent or impact of something.

Usage

Material is commonly used to describe the physical properties of an object or substance. For example, "The table is made of wood, a material that is durable and long-lasting." On the other hand, materially is used to emphasize the importance or significance of something. For instance, "The increase in sales materially impacted the company's bottom line."

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between material and materially:

• Material: The fabric of the dress was soft and comfortable.
• Materially: The new marketing strategy materially improved customer engagement.

Impact

When it comes to impact, material refers to the physical or tangible aspects of something, while materially refers to the significant or substantial effects of something. For example, a material change in a product could refer to a change in its physical composition, while a materially positive impact on a business could refer to a significant increase in revenue.

Context

Both material and materially are used in different contexts to convey specific meanings. Material is often used in discussions about physical objects or substances, while materially is used in discussions about the impact or significance of something. Understanding the context in which these words are used can help avoid confusion and ensure clear communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, material and materially are two words that may sound similar but have distinct meanings and uses. Material refers to the physical or tangible nature of something, while materially refers to the significant or substantial impact of something. By understanding the differences between these two words, you can use them correctly in your writing and communication.