are material

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are material" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the significance or relevance of something, often in legal, academic, or formal discussions. Example: "The facts presented in the case are material to the outcome of the trial."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are material gains.

Independent

"Those are material things".

The New York Times

They are material, not ideational.

The New York Times

Some of these are material.

The Economist

Then there are material witnesses.

The New York Times

Also, many Americans are material determinists.

The New York Times

All handmade images are material tricks, of course.

The New Yorker

The only legitimate interests, he believes, are material ones.

The New York Times - Books

"We do not believe these adjustments are material".

The New York Times

Our phones are material extensions of ourselves, repositories for memories and secrets.

The Guardian - Opinion

These are material omissions that, in our view, constitute another material breach.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are material" when you want to emphasize the significance or relevance of certain facts or evidence, especially in legal, financial, or research contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "are material" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "are important" or "are relevant" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are material" functions as a linking verb (are) followed by an adjective (material). It connects the subject to a descriptor, indicating that the subject possesses the quality of being significant or relevant. This aligns with Ludwig's indication of its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Unknown/unmatched sources

5%

Academic sources

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are material" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies significance and relevance. As Ludwig confirms, it is appropriate in various contexts, notably within News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. However, be mindful of its formal tone and reserve it for professional or academic writing. Alternatives like "are significant" or "are relevant" may suit more casual settings. Remember to prioritize clarity and precision when using "are material" to underscore key facts and evidence effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are significant

Highlights importance and relevance.

are relevant

Highlights direct connection and importance to the topic.

are substantial

Emphasizes the considerable amount or degree.

are pertinent

Highlights relevance to a specific matter.

are tangible

Highlights the physical and real existence.

are considerable

Focuses on the size or importance.

represent a tangible aspect

Emphasizes the concrete and perceptible nature of something.

are weighty

Implies seriousness and importance.

constitute substance

Focuses on the substantive nature or composition.

hold significance

Stresses the importance or consequence.

FAQs

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

Use "are material" to indicate that certain facts, evidence or considerations are significant and relevant to a specific issue. For example, "The presented documents "are material" to the case."

What can I say instead of "are material"?

You can use alternatives such as "are significant", "are relevant", or "are important" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "are material"?

It is appropriate to use "are material" in formal and professional settings, especially when discussing facts or evidence that have a direct impact on the outcome or decision being made. It's common in legal, financial, and research contexts.

Is "are material" interchangeable with "are important"?

While both convey significance, "are material" suggests a direct and substantial impact on a specific outcome, often in formal contexts. "are important" is a broader term and can be used in more general situations.