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immaterial

/ˌɪməˈtɪɹi.əl/

In everyday conversation, "immaterial" is most commonly used to mean "irrelevant." It is often used in formal settings, such as law courts or business meetings, to dismiss a point that does not affect the final decision. When referring to things that are not physical (like spirits or thoughts), it is a more philosophical or religious term and is less common in casual daily speech.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is hiding in the breakroom to avoid David.
Jessica

Did you use the old hex codes or the new ones for the logo?

Jessica
Sarah
Sarah

It's immaterial since David is just gonna scrap the whole thing anyway.

💡
Sarah uses 'immaterial' to express that the specific detail (hex codes) is irrelevant because of the inevitable outcome. The phrase 'scrap the whole thing' is a phrasal verb meaning to discard or cancel a project entirely, reflecting her cynical view of their boss.

Meanings

adjective

Unimportant under the circumstances; irrelevant.

"Whether the car is red or blue is immaterial to its mechanical performance."

adjective

Spiritual rather than physical; not consisting of matter.

"The philosopher argued that the soul is an immaterial entity separate from the body."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error