Word: document (noun, verb)

Associations

A document is usually a written or printed paper that gives information or proof. As a verb, "to document" means to record information carefully.

Examples as a noun:

• A passport is an important document for travel. It proves your identity.
• The report is a document that explains the results of the study.
• Legal documents are papers like contracts or wills.

Examples as a verb:

• Please document your work so others can understand it.
• The police documented the accident by taking photos and notes.
• Scientists document their experiments to share results.

Synonym note: As a noun, "document" is similar to "file" or "record," but "document" often means something official or formal. As a verb, "document" is close to "record," but "document" usually means writing or saving detailed information.

Substitution

Instead of "document" (noun), you could say:

• paper, file, record (less formal or less official) Instead of "document" (verb), you could say:
• record, write down, note

Changing the word might make the meaning less formal or less detailed.

Deconstruction

"Document" comes from Latin "documentum," meaning "lesson" or "example," from "docere," meaning "to teach."
As a noun, it means something that teaches or shows information.
As a verb, it means to provide evidence or information by writing or recording.

Inquiry

• What kinds of documents do you use every day?
• Can you think of a time when you had to document something important?
• How is documenting information helpful in your work or studies?