a material that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a material that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a specific type of material or substance in various contexts, such as science, engineering, or art. Example: "We need to select a material that is both durable and lightweight for the construction of the new bridge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is made largely of a material that mimics sharkskin.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a material that has been around for millennia.

The New York Times - Science

"It is a material that is both poor and noble".

The New York Times

The spinel begins as a material that looks like talcum powder and is broken down further.

The New York Times - Science

In the prototype device, gasoline runs over a material that acts as a catalyst.

The New York Times

You need to have a material that bends light around an object.

The Guardian

Bronze is also a material that has been used by almost every sculptor of note.

The Guardian - Arts

The problem was neoprene, a material that "doesn't lie," as Mr. George put it.

The New York Times - Style

She likes that it is made from a material that can be reused, she said.

The New York Times

The result, if the conditions are right, is a material that is superconducting.

The Economist

"Whenever I identify a material that is worked by unbelievable craftspeople, I'm attracted to it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the properties of a material, follow "a material that" with a specific and measurable attribute. For example, "a material that is resistant to high temperatures" is more informative than "a material that is good."

Common error

Avoid using overly vague adjectives after "a material that". Instead of saying "a material that is strong", specify what kind of strength you mean, such as "a material that is tensile strength" or "a material that is compressive strength".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a material that" functions as a relative clause introducing additional information or specifying characteristics about the noun "material". Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts to describe qualities such as flexibility, transparency, or conductivity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a material that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce descriptive clauses about materials, specifying their properties or functions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. While it is frequently employed in news, science, and general-purpose writing, strive for specificity in your descriptions and avoid overly general adjectives. Consider alternatives such as "a substance which" or "a component that" depending on the context to add clarity and precision to your writing. Use "that" for restrictive clauses and be mindful of the specific properties you are describing for optimal impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substance which

Replaces "material" with "substance" and "that" with "which", both minor variations.

a component that

Substitutes "material" with "component", focusing on the constituent aspect.

a medium that

Replaces "material" with "medium", suitable when referring to artistic or scientific applications.

a product that

Emphasizes the result or outcome of using the material.

a resource that

Highlights the availability and utility of the material.

an element that

Focuses on the fundamental or basic nature of the material.

a compound that

More specific, referring to a material formed from two or more elements.

a textile that

Narrows the scope to woven or knitted materials.

a fabric that

Similar to "a textile that", but often implies a more flexible material.

something that consists of

Shifts from defining the material itself to defining what something is made of.

FAQs

How can I use "a material that" in a sentence?

Use "a material that" to introduce a descriptive clause about the properties or functions of a specific material. For example, "We need to find "a material that" is both lightweight and durable".

What are some alternatives to "a material that"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a substance which", "a component that", or "a medium that" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more appropriate to use "which" or "that" after "a material"?

While both "that" and "which" can be used, "that" is generally preferred for restrictive clauses that are essential to the meaning of the sentence. "Which" is used for non-restrictive clauses that add extra information. For example, "We need "a material that" can withstand high pressure" (essential) vs. "This container is made from fiberglass, "a material that" is known for its durability" (extra information).

What is the difference between "a material that" and "a type of material that"?

"A material that" refers to a specific instance or kind of material with particular properties. "A type of material that" is more general, referring to a category of materials. For example, "We are researching "a material that" can absorb radiation" (specific material) vs. "We are researching a type of material that is suitable for 3D printing" (category of materials).