gather materials

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'gather materials' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to the act of collecting the necessary items for a project, task, or activity. For example, "Before we can begin our science experiment, we have to first gather all the materials we'll need from the lab."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Like Minecraft, Patterns places your avatar in a world where you can gather materials and then use them to create new objects and structures.

The Guardian - Tech

With that, she was off to the fabric shop to gather materials and try her hand at creating a life-size stuffed cow.

The New York Times

That time might be filled stuffing envelopes, helping a costume designer gather materials around town or serving drinks at the lobby bar.

The New York Times

Participants will also gather materials -- similar to what birds use for their nests -- to make a handmade picture frame for Father's Day.

The New York Times - Arts

They conduct repeated surveillance, patiently gather materials and identify and vet operatives, who have the skills to participate in the attack and the willingness to die for their cause.

The New York Times

The report alleged that, in addition to using state staff members for baby-sitting and chauffeuring, Mr. Stone, 73, also had workers gather materials for his classes and type and copy study documents.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

He began to gather material for one.

The New Yorker

Gather material.

WikiHow

Gather material on the topic.

WikiHow

All gathered material has been treated anonymously.

BMC Health Services Research

Gather material and clippings' and magazines.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "gather materials", be specific about the type of materials you are collecting to provide clarity. For instance, instead of saying "gather materials for the project", specify "gather construction materials for the project".

Common error

Avoid using "gather materials" in abstract contexts where physical objects are not involved. For example, instead of saying "gather materials for a conclusion", use "gather information to form a conclusion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gather materials" functions as a verb phrase, typically serving as the main verb in a sentence. It denotes the action of collecting necessary items or resources for a specific purpose. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

39%

News & Media

31%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gather materials" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase, indicating the action of collecting items for a specific purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It appears most often in Wiki, News & Media, and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse settings. When using the phrase, clarity is enhanced by specifying the type of materials being collected, and avoiding its application in abstract contexts. Alternatives such as "collect resources" or "accumulate supplies" can be used depending on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

collect resources

Focuses more on the broader concept of resources rather than specific materials.

accumulate supplies

Emphasizes the gradual gathering of provisions or equipment.

procure components

More specific to acquiring parts or elements for a technical purpose.

secure provisions

Implies obtaining essential items, often in a challenging situation.

obtain ingredients

Specifically refers to getting the necessary items for a recipe or mixture.

assemble elements

Highlights the putting together of different parts.

marshal assets

Suggests organizing and arranging resources strategically.

amass items

Implies collecting a large quantity of things.

requisition equipment

Suggests formally requesting and obtaining necessary gear.

stockpile goods

Implies accumulating a large reserve of items for future use.

FAQs

How can I use "gather materials" in a sentence?

You can use "gather materials" to describe collecting items needed for a task. For example, "Before we start building the birdhouse, we need to gather materials like wood, nails, and a hammer."

What is a good alternative to "gather materials"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "collect resources", "accumulate supplies", or "procure components".

Is it correct to say "gather the material" instead of "gather materials"?

Both are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Gather the material" implies collecting a specific substance, while "gather materials" refers to collecting various items.

What's the difference between "gather materials" and "collect data"?

"Gather materials" typically refers to physical objects, whereas "collect data" refers to gathering information or statistics. For instance, a scientist would "collect data" from an experiment, but a builder would "gather materials" for construction.