basic material comforts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basic material comforts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the essential physical needs and conveniences that contribute to a person's well-being and quality of life. Example: "In many developing countries, access to basic material comforts such as clean water and adequate housing is still a significant challenge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Over time, societies will spend more of their resources on services like medical care, since they can already afford basic material comforts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

WASHINGTON — American slaves managed ingeniously to acquire a few material comforts.

The New York Times - Arts

Some only children have indeed grown up enjoying enormous material comforts compared with their parents' generation.

The Economist

Their childhood is quite different, of course, from mine in terms of material comforts.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Aren't the acquisitively ambitious simply seeking to gain the material comforts she has in abundance?

The Guardian - Books

The basic material has been used in different ways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Frames of various designs hold the basic material taut.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If her childhood was low in material comforts, it was culturally rich.

The Guardian - Film

Purified silicon, the basic material of such cells, is expensive.

The Economist

That basic material is hugely illuminating in its own right.

The New York Times - Books

The 20th Century brought material comforts, but also great wars and famines.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about societal progress or economic development, use "basic material comforts" to illustrate the tangible improvements in living standards that people experience as their societies advance.

Common error

Avoid implying that happiness or fulfillment solely depends on "basic material comforts". Acknowledge the importance of non-material aspects such as relationships, personal growth, and community.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basic material comforts" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition to describe tangible elements contributing to well-being. Ludwig's examples highlight its role in discussing living standards and societal progress. According to Ludwig AI the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "basic material comforts" refers to the fundamental physical necessities and conveniences that contribute to a person's well-being and standard of living. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in diverse contexts, including news articles, encyclopedic entries, and general discussions about economic development and quality of life. Ludwig's examples show it is suitable for describing societal progress and tangible improvements in living standards. When using this phrase, consider avoiding an overemphasis on materialism by acknowledging the importance of non-material aspects of life.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential comforts

Combines the idea of necessity and ease, focusing on the basic elements that make life more pleasant.

basic necessities of life

Stresses the most essential elements required for survival, such as food, water, and shelter.

essential physical needs

Focuses on the fundamental physical requirements for survival and well-being, emphasizing necessity over comfort.

necessary conveniences

Highlights the useful and practical items or services that contribute to a more comfortable and efficient lifestyle.

fundamental necessities

Highlights the absolutely essential items or conditions required for life and basic functioning.

fundamental resources

Highlights the availability of essential resources needed to sustain life and support well-being.

basic amenities

Refers to the essential facilities and services that make a place livable and comfortable.

creature comforts

Implies a focus on physical ease and indulgence, often going beyond mere necessities.

material possessions

Highlights ownership of goods, potentially going beyond "comforts" to include items of value or status.

physical well-being

Emphasizes health and physical state, which can be supported by material "comforts" but isn't solely defined by them.

FAQs

How can I use "basic material comforts" in a sentence?

You can use "basic material comforts" to describe the fundamental physical necessities and conveniences that contribute to a person's standard of living. For example, "Access to "basic material comforts" like clean water and reliable electricity is often taken for granted in developed nations".

What are some alternatives to "basic material comforts"?

Alternatives include "essential physical needs", "fundamental necessities", or "basic amenities", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What distinguishes "basic material comforts" from "luxuries"?

"Basic material comforts" refer to necessities that enhance quality of life, while luxuries are non-essential items that provide pleasure or extravagance beyond what is needed for well-being.

Is it appropriate to use "basic material comforts" in formal writing?

Yes, "basic material comforts" is suitable for formal writing when discussing living standards, economic development, or social welfare. However, ensure the context aligns with the term's emphasis on fundamental needs rather than excessive indulgence.