Documentation: meaning, definitions and examples
📄
documentation
[ ˌdɑːkjʊmɛnˈteɪʃən ]
information
Documentation refers to the act of creating, collecting, and organizing information in a systematic way. It often includes written instructions, guidelines, manuals, and records to help users understand a product, process, or system.
Synonyms
guidance, instructions, records.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
Used when referring to a collection of documents that provide information about a specific topic, process, or product, usually in a technical or formal setting.
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| records |
Used when referring to documents or data that are preserved for the purpose of retaining information, typically for official, legal, or historical purposes.
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| guidance |
Used when referring to advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or difficulty. Often used in educational or advisory settings.
|
| instructions |
Used when referring to step-by-step directions on how to perform a specific task or use a product. It is often found in manuals or user guides.
|
Examples of usage
- Make sure to read the documentation before using the software.
- The documentation provided detailed steps for assembling the furniture.
- The documentation for the project was well-organized and easy to follow.
legal
In a legal context, documentation refers to the collection and preservation of evidence or records to support a claim or prove compliance with regulations. It can include contracts, agreements, invoices, and other official documents.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
In general use, this word can simply refer to the act of recording or keeping detailed information.
|
| records |
Used in various settings to refer to archived information or data, often in an organized or official manner.
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| evidence |
Commonly used in legal, scientific, or investigative contexts to refer to information or objects that prove or disprove something.
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| paperwork |
Generally used in casual or workplace contexts to refer to various forms and documents that need to be filled out or processed.
|
Examples of usage
- The lawyer requested documentation to support the client's case.
- The documentation submitted with the application was thorough and complete.
- Proper documentation is essential for demonstrating regulatory compliance.
software
In the context of software development, documentation includes technical descriptions, specifications, and explanations of code and algorithms. It serves as a reference for developers, testers, and users to understand the software.
Synonyms
code explanation, software manual, technical documentation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| documentation |
General term for all written materials relating to the use, maintenance, and development of software or hardware. Encompasses many types of documents such as manuals, user guides, and specifications.
|
| technical documentation |
Detailed written material that describes the architecture, design, and technical aspects of software or hardware systems. Mainly intended for developers and IT professionals.
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| software manual |
Comprehensive guide focused on end-users, providing step-by-step instructions on how to use the software, its features, and its functions. Ideal for new users or those seeking to fully utilize the software.
|
| code explanation |
Specific explanations within the code itself, often as comments, to help programmers understand the logic and purpose of the code. Useful during development and team collaborations.
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Examples of usage
- The software documentation outlined the functionality of each module.
- Writing clear documentation is as important as writing good code.
- Developers often refer to documentation when troubleshooting issues.
Translations
Translations of the word "documentation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 documentação
🇮🇳 दस्तावेज़ीकरण
🇩🇪 Dokumentation
🇮🇩 dokumentasi
🇺🇦 документація
🇵🇱 dokumentacja
🇯🇵 ドキュメント
🇫🇷 documentation
🇪🇸 documentación
🇹🇷 belgelendirme
🇰🇷 문서화
🇸🇦 توثيق
🇨🇿 dokumentace
🇸🇰 dokumentácia
🇨🇳 文档
🇸🇮 dokumentacija
🇮🇸 skjalavinnsla
🇰🇿 құжаттама
🇬🇪 დოკუმენტაცია
🇦🇿 sənədləşmə
🇲🇽 documentación
Etymology
The word 'documentation' originated from the Latin word 'documentum', meaning 'lesson' or 'example'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the process of creating and preserving written records. The concept of documentation has been essential in various fields such as information technology, legal practice, and research.
See also: documentarian, documentary, documented, documenting, documents, undocumented.