materials in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "materials in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to specific materials that are being discussed or examined in a particular context. Example: "The researchers analyzed the materials in question to determine their properties and potential applications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But the materials in question did not add up to much.

The Guardian

"It's absolutely crucial to maintain a level of respect for the materials in question and the author in question".

The New Yorker

Without gravity, however, splitting the two is trickier business — whether the materials in question are in a fuel line, an oxygen generation system or a toilet.

The New York Times - Science

"We ceased using the materials in question on the day the order became effective and promptly retrieved them from doctors' offices".

The New York Times

In common with all the other putative mass-market applications of superconductivity, the materials in question are so-called high-temperature superconductors (HTSs).

The Economist

Lawyers for some of the workers sought to play down the allegations, arguing that many of the materials in question were of little use to the authority anyway.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The material in question depicted Picasso in the nude.

The New York Times - Arts

Prosecutors said the material in question was not relevant.

The New York Times

They contended that their conduct was not criminal, because the material in question was unwanted.

The Economist

Dr. Mann produced the material in question, and the Pennsylvania State board cleared him of the charge.

The New York Times - Science

(Or unless sites cross the line from aggregators to co-creators of the material in question).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "materials in question", ensure the context clearly identifies which materials are being referred to. This avoids ambiguity and maintains clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "materials in question" without previously establishing what those materials are. Always provide a clear antecedent to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "materials in question" functions primarily as a noun phrase identifying specific substances or items under consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used. The phrase serves to specify the items that are the subject of analysis, debate, or investigation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "materials in question" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to specific items or substances under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and scientific contexts, the phrase serves to specify and focus attention on relevant materials, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity. While alternatives like "subject materials" or "relevant substances" exist, "materials in question" is a common and reliable choice for formal communication. Ensure you provide sufficient context to identify the materials to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject materials

Highlights that the materials are the topic or subject of discussion or investigation.

aforementioned materials

Refers to materials previously mentioned, providing a formal and direct link to prior discussion.

relevant substances

Focuses on the relevance of the substances being discussed, shifting from inquiry to applicability.

pertinent items

Emphasizes the importance or relevance of the items at hand, using a more general term than "materials".

identified components

Focuses on the components that have been identified as part of a larger system or analysis.

particular elements

Highlights the specific elements being considered, potentially in a scientific or technical context.

analyzed components

Highlights that the components have undergone analysis, emphasizing a process of examination.

specified resources

Replaces "materials" with "resources", implying a broader scope of items that are defined or specified.

concrete resources

Replaces 'materials' with 'resources', but specifies they are tangible and real.

concrete matter

Focuses on the tangible nature of the matter being considered, often in a more abstract or philosophical sense.

FAQs

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

Use "materials in question" to refer to specific items or substances being discussed or examined. For example, "The lab results for the "samples in question" were inconclusive".

What's a formal alternative to "materials in question"?

In formal contexts, consider using "subject materials" or "aforementioned materials" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "material in question" different from "materials in question"?

"Material in question" refers to a single item or substance, while "materials in question" refers to multiple items or substances. Choose the phrase that matches the quantity being discussed.

Can "elements in question" be used instead of "materials in question"?

Yes, "elements in question" can be used, especially if you are referring to specific components or parts of something rather than general substances. The best choice depends on the specific context.