Materialise vs. Materialize — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 7, 2024
Materialise and Materialize both refer to making something physical or real, but they vary in spelling by region: "materialise" is British, "materialize" is American.
Difference Between Materialise and Materialize
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Materialise is the British English spelling of the verb that means to make something physical or to become visible. On the other hand, Materialize is the American English spelling of the same verb. It carries the same meanings and is used in similar contexts, but conforms to American spelling conventions.
While Materialise might be more commonly seen in British, Australian, and other Commonwealth countries' publications, it's not just about spelling preferences. Whereas "materialize" is preferred in American English, "materialise" is not considered incorrect in the United States—it's simply less common.
The decision to use "materialise" or "materialize" should be based on the intended audience's linguistic norms. If writing for a predominantly British audience, "materialise" would be more appropriate, while "materialize" suits an American audience. This ensures clarity and adherence to regional spelling conventions, enhancing the readability of the text.
Comparison Chart
Spelling
-ise ending
-ize ending
Usage
Preferred in the UK, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries
Preferred in the United States
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Context
Used in the same contexts as materialize, to make something physical or real
Used in the same contexts as materialise, to make something physical or real
Linguistic Identity
Reflects British English spelling conventions
Reflects American English spelling conventions
Global Understanding
Understood globally but adheres to British norms
Understood globally but adheres to American norms
Compare with Definitions
Materialise
To become visible or actual.
The ghost materialised in the dimly lit room.
Materialize
To become visible or actual.
The figure materialized out of the shadows.
Materialise
To make something tangible.
The team worked hard to materialise their concept into a prototype.
Materialize
To come into being.
A surprising solution materialized by the morning.
Materialise
To come into being.
A new opportunity materialised overnight.
Materialize
To appear suddenly.
An exit materialized just when they needed it.
Materialise
To appear suddenly.
A solution materialised after hours of discussion.
Materialize
To take a physical form.
The concept materialized into a comprehensive plan.
Materialise
To take a physical form.
The characters from the book materialised on the screen.
Materialize
To make something tangible.
They managed to materialize their idea into a successful business.
Materialise
Standard spelling of materialize
Materialize
Become actual fact; happen
The forecast rate of increase did not materialize
Materialise
Come into being; become reality;
Her dream really materialized
Materialize
(of a ghost, spirit, or similar entity) appear in bodily form
He plays a teenager whose make-believe friend materializes
Materialize
To come into existence; become real
Their support on the eastern flank did not materialize.
Materialize
To appear, especially suddenly
"As they plunged down the highway, hazy purple mountains materialized" (Tom Bissell).
Materialize
To take physical form or shape. Used especially of a spirit or ghost.
Materialize
To cause to become real or actual
By building the house, we materialized a dream.
Materialize
To cause to become materialistic
"Inequality has the natural and necessary effect ... of materializing our upper class, vulgarizing our middle class, and brutalizing our lower class" (Matthew Arnold).
Materialize
(transitive) To cause to take physical form, or to cause an object to appear.
Materialize
(intransitive) To take physical form, to appear seemingly from nowhere.
Materialize
(transitive) To regard as matter; to consider or explain by the laws or principles which are appropriate to matter.
Materialize
To perform materialization; to save the results of a database query as a temporary table or materialized view.
Materialize
To invest with material characteristics; to make perceptible to the senses; hence, to present to the mind through the medium of material objects.
Having with wonderful art and beauty materialized, if I may so call it, a scheme of abstracted notions, and clothed the most nice, refined conceptions of philosophy in sensible images.
Materialize
To regard as matter; to consider or explain by the laws or principles which are appropriate to matter.
Materialize
To cause to assume a character appropriate to material things; to occupy with material interests; as, to materialize thought.
Materialize
To make visable in, or as in, a material form; - said of spirits.
A female spirit form temporarily materialized, and not distinguishable from a human being.
Materialize
To appear as a material form; to take substantial shape.
Materialize
To come into existence; as, the promised donations never materialized.
Materialize
Come into being; become reality;
Her dream really materialized
Common Curiosities
Can materialise and materialize be used interchangeably?
Yes, they can be used interchangeably, but the choice depends on the regional spelling preference.
Does the meaning change with the spelling?
No, the meaning of materialise and materialize remains the same regardless of spelling.
Is there a preference for materialise or materialize in scientific writing?
The preference depends on the publication's language standard; American publications typically use "materialize," while British publications may use "materialise."
Do English language exams prefer one spelling over the other?
English language exams typically accept both spellings as correct, but it's essential to be consistent throughout your answers.
Is materialise incorrect in American English?
Not incorrect, but materialize is the preferred spelling in American English.
Will using one spelling over the other affect my SEO?
It could, depending on your target audience's location. It's best to use the spelling your audience searches for more frequently.
Can changing from one spelling to another within a document be considered a mistake?
Yes, consistency is key in writing, so switching between spellings can be seen as an error or lack of attention to detail.
Are there any exceptions where one spelling is always preferred?
No universal exceptions exist; preference is always based on regional spelling norms.
Can businesses or technical terms use both spellings?
Yes, businesses and technical terms can use both spellings, but they should be consistent with their choice based on their target audience.
Are there tools to help me decide which spelling to use?
Yes, word processors and online writing platforms often have settings to choose between American and British English spelling.
Are there any historical reasons for the difference in spelling?
The difference stems from the standardization of English spelling in different regions and the influence of early dictionaries and style guides.
How should I choose between materialise and materialize in my writing?
Choose based on your audience; if your audience is primarily in the US, use "materialize," and if it's in the UK or a Commonwealth country, use "materialise."
Will using British spelling in an American context confuse readers?
It might cause minor confusion or simply signal to readers that the writer is using British English conventions.
Is one form older than the other?
Both forms have been in use for a long time, and their origins are closely linked to the history of English spelling standardization.
Can the choice of spelling reflect the writer's personal preference?
Yes, writers sometimes choose spellings based on personal preference, but it's important to consider the audience's expectations.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
