material vs. materiel material (something that you need for a particular activity) We import construction materials like cement and steel. I need some cleaning materials. materiel (military equipment and supplies) They are in need of war materiel like weapons and ammunition. The military is carrying lethal war materiel to the war zone. …
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marital vs. martial marital (relating to marriage) She always talks about their marital problems. Could I ask you about your marital status? [=whether you are married or not] martial (relating to war or soldiers) After the latest violence the city is now under martial law. Some soldiers faced a court martial for disobeying …
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mantel vs. mantle mantel (the shelf above the fireplace and the decorative frame that surrounds the fireplace) On the mantel were photographs of her grandchildren. There was an old clock on the mantel. mantle (an important job, duty, or responsibility that passes from one person to another) John accepted the mantle …
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maize vs. maze maize British English (a tall plant with yellow seeds) The villagers cultivate maize, wheat, and beans. We grow mostly maize and rice. Synonym: Corn American English maze (a complicated and confusing system of paths or passages) We found ourselves lost in a maze of passages in …
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magnate vs. magnet magnate (a very rich and successful person) He is a financial magnate. She married a famous petroleum magnate in Texas. magnet (a piece of metal that attracts objects made of iron or steel) Pick up all the pins using a magnet. (a person or thing that attracts people …
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