Diary: meaning, definitions and examples

A diary is typically a personal record where someone writes about their daily experiences and feelings. It is often used to capture personal thoughts and private moments.

• She wrote in her diary every night before going to bed.
• He kept a diary to document his feelings throughout the year.

A journal is often more formal than a diary and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as recording academic or professional notes, reflections, or creative writing. It is not always as personal as a diary.

• I keep a journal to track my progress in learning French.
• Her travel journal was filled with sketches and notes from her trip.

A log is used to record specific events, activities, or measurements, often in a systematic and detailed manner. It is commonly used in scientific, technical, or professional contexts.

• The captain's log detailed the ship's voyage and weather conditions.
• Engineers kept a log of the project's daily progress.

A notebook is a more general term for a book of plain or lined paper used for taking notes, sketching, or jotting down ideas. It is less specific than a diary or journal and can be used for various purposes.

• She always carries a notebook to write down her thoughts and ideas.
• He doodled in his notebook during the meeting.