Definition

Adverb: - In a manner that prioritizes physical possessions and wealth over spiritual or intellectual values: The word describes approaching situations, life, or decisions with an emphasis on material comfort, financial gain, and tangible objects.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • He viewed the world materialistically, seeing success only in terms of income and property.
  • One should not approach life materialistically, as it often leads to neglecting personal relationships.
  • The philosopher argued that thinking materialistically limits our understanding of human consciousness.

Advanced Usage

• Philosophical Context: In philosophy, "materialistically" can describe interpreting all phenomena, including thought and consciousness, as solely the result of physical matter and processes.
  • The scientist explained consciousness materialistically, as a product of complex neural activity.

Variants and Related Words

• Materialistic (adjective): Excessively concerned with material possessions.
  • His materialistic desires were never satisfied.
• Materialism (noun): 1. A tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values. 2. The philosophical theory that nothing exists except matter.
  • Consumerism often promotes a culture of materialism.

Synonyms

• Acquisitively: In a manner focused on gaining possessions.
• Worldly: In a manner concerned with secular rather than spiritual affairs.

Antonyms

• Spiritually: In a manner concerned with the human spirit or soul.
• Idealistically: In a manner based on high principles, often unrealistically.

Related Phrases

• To live materialistically: To lead a life focused on acquiring wealth and goods.
  • They chose to live simply, refusing to live materialistically.

Adverb

1. in a materialistic manner
   • one should not approach life materialistically