surface texture

USAGE SUMMARY

"surface texture" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase refers to the quality or physical characteristics of the surface of an object, such as its smoothness, roughness, or pattern. Example: The fabric had a soft surface texture, making it perfect for cozy blankets.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's some surface texture.

The New York Times

The background was created using the Apply Surface Texture effect.

Stanford University

Repetition, surface texture and everyday life enliven the conversation.

The New York Times - Arts

Their strut showed uniform surface texture.

Materials Science and Engineering: C

Each component is like its neighbors, yet each is subtly individual in surface texture and tonality.

The New York Times

These include fine line drawing, dotting techniques and loose expressive brushwork for surface texture.

The New York Times

The result was two-dimensional, with only hints of surface texture or complexity.

The New York Times - Science

It oozes decay, from the mottled surface texture to the surrounding debris pile of paper bricks.

The New York Times

Pettersson, U. Influence of surface texture on boundary lubricated sliding contacts.

Nature

Vary the surface texture from "translucent frosted" to "smooth and shiny"?

The New York Times - Magazine

Surface texture has been well studied for metals and ceramics.

Tribology International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual arts, use specific adjectives to define the "surface texture", such as 'rough', 'smooth', 'matte', or 'glossy', to create a vivid image for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using contradictory terms to describe the "surface texture". For example, do not describe a surface as 'smoothly rough' without providing a clear explanation of the apparent contradiction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "surface texture" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific attribute of an object or material, referring to the tactile and visual characteristics of its outermost layer. Ludwig provides ample examples of its use in describing various materials and objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "surface texture" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the physical qualities of a surface. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds frequent application in scientific, news, and academic contexts. Its formality varies, ranging from formal in scientific literature to neutral in news reports. When using the term, be specific and avoid contradictory descriptions to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tactile quality

Highlights the aspect of the surface that can be perceived through touch.

feel of the material

Highlights the sensory experience associated with the surface.

physical appearance

Focuses on what the surface looks like based on the texture.

finish quality

Focuses on the achieved standard or grade of the surface's finishing process.

coating character

Focuses specifically on the texture of a surface coating.

epidermis touch

Highlights the first impression when touching a surface.

superficial grain

Emphasizes the small-scale texture patterns on the surface.

external feature

Specifies that the texture is an outside characteristic.

material consistency

Describes the uniformity and makeup of a surface.

topography

Refers to the detailed mapping of a surface's features.

FAQs

How do I describe the "surface texture" of an object?

Use descriptive adjectives like smooth, rough, bumpy, glossy, matte, coarse, or fine to accurately convey the "surface texture". The choice of words depends on the specific qualities you want to emphasize.

What is the difference between "surface texture" and "surface pattern"?

"Surface texture" refers to the physical feel and quality of a surface, while "surface pattern" refers to the arrangement of shapes and designs on the surface. Texture emphasizes the tactile quality, whereas pattern emphasizes visual arrangement.

In materials science, why is "surface texture" important?

In materials science, "surface texture" affects properties like friction, adhesion, and light absorption. Modifying the "surface finish" can optimize these properties for specific applications.

What are some common synonyms for "surface texture"?

While there aren't perfect synonyms, related terms include "finish quality", "tactile quality", "superficial grain", or simply "surface quality", depending on the specific context.