a material changes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a material changes" is not correct in English.
It should be "material changes" or "a material change." You can use the correct form when discussing significant alterations or modifications in a context such as business, law, or science. Example: "The contract stipulates that any material changes must be reported immediately."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Phase transitions happen when a material changes from one ordered type of matter to another; the melting of ice is a phase transition because the water changes from one phase (solid ice) to another (liquid water).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The specific electrical resistance of such a material changes between 4.8 and 1.22×10−4 Ω cm depending on the substrate temperature.

Surface and Coatings Technology

At the heart of data reading and recording devices is a property called magnetoresistance (MR), in which the electrical resistance of a material changes in response to the presence of an external magnetic field.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The prosecutor shouldn't make a second approach unless there is a material change in circumstances.

The Guardian - Opinion

Realistically, we'd be talking October, November, which is not a material change in the agreement".

The New York Times - Sports

The board did not view the alternative structure as a material change to United's proposal.

The New York Times

The governor replies that he "does not expect a material change" to the market.

The Guardian - Business

"They could claim that it was a material change to the contract, and exit the program".

The New York Times

Ferguson said BSkyB would look at Murdoch's position only if there was "anything that makes for a material change".

The Guardian

The current law says that commitments could be reviewed if there is a "material change of conditions".

The Guardian

It is now blocked from launching a bid for six months (unless there's a material change in circumstances, like a rival bidder).

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing how something changes, ensure subject-verb agreement. Instead of "a material changes," use "a material changes" if you are referring to multiple instances. Or rewrite the sentence to use the grammatically correct forms: "material changes" or "a material change".

Common error

Avoid using "a material changes" due to subject-verb disagreement. This error often stems from not correctly pairing singular nouns with plural verbs. Always double-check that your verbs match your subjects in number.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a material changes" functions incorrectly as it attempts to combine a singular indefinite article ("a") with a plural verb form ("changes"). The intended function is likely to describe a notable or significant alteration, but the grammatical error renders the phrase incorrect, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a material changes" is grammatically incorrect. As Ludwig AI highlights, the correct forms are "material changes" (plural) or "a material change" (singular). The examples provided by Ludwig underscore this point, showcasing proper usage across diverse contexts like science, news, and encyclopedias. To avoid errors, ensure subject-verb agreement and choose the appropriate form based on whether you're referring to one or multiple alterations. Synonyms like "significant alteration" or "substantial modification" can also add nuance to your writing. Always prioritize grammatical accuracy for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant alteration

Focuses on the importance or impact of the change.

substantial modification

Emphasizes the degree or extent of the change.

notable transformation

Highlights the visibility or recognizability of the change.

marked variation

Implies a distinct difference or deviation.

major adjustment

Suggests a significant correction or realignment.

fundamental shift

Indicates a deep or foundational change.

considerable difference

Stresses the magnitude of the dissimilarity.

radical conversion

Conveys a complete or extreme change.

profound metamorphosis

Emphasizes a deep and transformative change, often suggesting a more dramatic shift.

sweeping revision

Implies a comprehensive and extensive change.

FAQs

What's the correct way to use "material" when describing changes?

The correct phrasing depends on whether you're referring to one or multiple instances. Use "material changes" for plural and "a material change" for singular. The phrase "a material changes" is incorrect.

Can I use synonyms for "a material change" to improve my writing?

Yes, consider using alternatives like "significant alteration", "substantial modification", or "notable transformation" to add variety and precision to your writing.

What does "material" mean in the context of "a material change"?

In this context, "material" means significant, important, or substantial. A "material change" is a change that is consequential enough to matter.

Which is correct: "material changes" or "a material change"?

"Material changes" is the plural form, used when referring to multiple significant alterations. "A material change" is singular, referring to a single important alteration. The phrase "a material changes" is grammatically incorrect.