material comforts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "material comforts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to physical or tangible comforts and conveniences that contribute to a person's quality of life, often in the context of wealth or well-being. Example: "After years of hard work, she finally achieved the material comforts she had always dreamed of, including a nice home and a reliable car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They want a chance, naturally, to have a bigger share in the modern world's material comforts.

The Economist

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

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

The Guardian - Film

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

While material comforts are necessary, in the end I believe self worth is more important than net worth".

The New York Times

That's not hard to understand since China was very poor three decades ago and still lacks many material comforts.

The New Yorker

Of course, material comforts alone do not guarantee personal well being, which Suu Kyi seemed to be trying to articulate.

The New Yorker

True civilization, he insisted, was about moral self-knowledge and spiritual strength rather than bodily well-being, material comforts, or great art and architecture.

The New Yorker

It seems unlikely that PAS's aim of eventually governing Malaysia could be realised; the Malaysians are too fond of their material comforts to embrace Islamic austerity.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing societal values or cultural shifts, use "material comforts" to represent tangible aspects of well-being that are often prioritized or contrasted with other values, like spiritual fulfillment or community ties.

Common error

Avoid implying that "material comforts" are the only or primary indicator of a successful or fulfilling life. Balance discussions with considerations of emotional, intellectual, and social well-being.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "material comforts" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It refers to tangible aspects of well-being and ease. Ludwig AI confirms its regular usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "material comforts" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to the tangible aspects of a comfortable lifestyle. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples demonstrates its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it can take on a more formal tone in analytical discussions. It's essential to consider the broader context when using the phrase, avoiding the implication that material wealth is the sole determinant of well-being. Related phrases include "creature comforts" and "physical comforts", offering nuanced alternatives for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical comforts

Directly refers to comforts that affect the body and physical state.

creature comforts

Emphasizes the basic physical comforts that contribute to well-being, often relating to home and immediate surroundings.

comfortable circumstances

Emphasizes the ease and pleasantness of one's situation due to material wealth.

affluent lifestyle

Refers to a way of living characterized by wealth and ease.

worldly possessions

Focuses on tangible items one owns, highlighting ownership rather than the comfort derived.

material possessions

A broader term encompassing all owned items, not necessarily implying comfort.

amenities and conveniences

Highlights specific features and services that make life easier and more pleasant.

luxury goods

Highlights items that are not essential but add pleasure and extravagance to life.

economic advantages

Focuses on the financial benefits that lead to a comfortable lifestyle.

high standard of living

Encompasses all aspects of a comfortable and prosperous life, including but not limited to material goods.

FAQs

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

"Material comforts" are often contrasted with less tangible aspects of life, such as relationships or personal growth. For example, "While they enjoyed many "material comforts", they felt something was missing from their lives".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "material comforts"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "creature comforts", "physical comforts", or "luxury goods" to convey a similar meaning.

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

Yes, "material comforts" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and neutral way to refer to the tangible aspects of a comfortable lifestyle. However, consider your audience and purpose to determine if a more specific term would be more effective.

What is the difference between "material comforts" and "standard of living"?

"Material comforts" refers specifically to tangible goods and services that enhance one's life. "Standard of living", on the other hand, is a broader concept that includes factors like access to healthcare, education, and environmental quality, in addition to "material comforts".