documents

word · lemma: document

/ˈdɑkjəmənts/, /ˈdɑkjumənts/
DAH-kyuh-muhnts, DAH-kyoo-muhnts
/ˈdɒkjəmənts/, /ˈdɒkjumənts/
DO-kyuh-muhnts, DO-kyoo-muhnts

Definition

Written, printed, or digital papers that contain information. It can also mean official papers used to prove identity, agreement, or other important facts.

Usage & Nuances

Common in offices, schools, and legal contexts. 'Documents' often means files or paperwork in general, while 'ID documents' or 'travel documents' specifically mean official papers. For computer files, English often uses 'open/save/share documents'.

Example Sentences

Please put these documents on my desk.

basic

I need the documents for my visa application.

basic

She keeps important documents in a safe box.

basic

Can you email me the documents before the meeting?

natural

We still haven't signed the documents yet.

natural

The lawyer asked us to bring all the documents we had.

natural