Briefcase: meaning, definitions and examples

A briefcase is generally used for carrying business documents, papers, and sometimes laptops. It is commonly associated with professionals such as lawyers, businessmen, and salespeople.

• She carried her briefcase into the meeting room
• The lawyer placed the contract into his briefcase

A portfolio is used for carrying and showcasing a collection of work, such as art, photographs, or architecture designs. It can also refer to an investment collection in a financial context.

• The artist displayed her drawings from her portfolio
• The graphic designer brought his portfolio to the job interview

An attache case is a type of narrow, rigid briefcase traditionally used for carrying documents and other items to meetings. It is often viewed as elegant and slightly old-fashioned.

• The diplomat arrived with an attache case containing sensitive documents
• He opened his attache case to retrieve the financial report

A document bag is a more casual and flexible bag used for carrying documents, files, and sometimes electronic devices. It is less formal than a briefcase.

• She put her homework in the document bag before heading to class
• The artist carried sketches and papers in a document bag