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Log: meaning, definitions and examples

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log

 

[lɒɡ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

wood

a segment of the trunk or a large branch of a tree when stripped of branches and bark.

Synonyms

block, piece of wood, timber.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
log

Used to describe a round piece of wood cut from a tree, typically used for burning or building.

  • We used a log to start the campfire.
  • The cabin was built from large logs.
piece of wood

Describes a general, unspecified part of wood, not necessarily cut from a tree trunk.

  • He carved a small figure from a piece of wood.
  • We need a flat piece of wood to fix the chair.
timber

Used to describe wood that is prepared for use in building and carpentry. In the UK, it may also refer to trees that have been cut down but not yet processed.

  • The house was constructed with high-quality timber.
  • They shouted 'Timber!' as the tree began to fall.
block

Refers to a solid, large, and typically rectangular piece of material, often used in construction. Can also mean to obstruct or halt something.

  • He put a block of ice in the cooler.
  • The road was blocked due to an accident.

Examples of usage

  • he gathered some dry logs for the fire
  • split logs were stacked against the wall
Context #2 | Noun

record

an official record of events during the voyage of a ship or aircraft.

Synonyms

diary, journal, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
log

Identical to the first entry for 'log', emphasizing systematic recording of data or events, often for practical purposes.

  • The security team reviewed the access log
  • The pilot updated the flight log
record

Generally used to describe the act of keeping or documenting information, particularly in official, legal, or historical contexts.

  • The hospital keeps a detailed record of patient histories
  • It's important to check the accuracy of financial records
journal

Commonly referred to in both personal and professional contexts; can be a record of personal thoughts or a professional log of activities. More formal than a diary.

  • She maintains a travel journal
  • Scientists publish their findings in journals
diary

Used for personal, often daily, writings where thoughts, experiences, and feelings are recorded. It is usually private.

  • She wrote about her day in her diary
  • His diary was full of personal reflections

Examples of usage

  • the log showed that the ship had traveled 5,000 miles
  • the pilot's log book
Context #3 | Verb

record

enter (an incident or fact) in an official record, typically one kept by an organization.

Synonyms

note, record, register.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
log

Used mainly in technical or practical contexts, such as logging information in a system or keeping track of activities over time.

  • The security team logs all attempts to access the network.
  • You should log your workout routines to track your progress.
record

Used for keeping formal or official information, often for the purpose of documentation or proof.

  • The doctor kept a detailed record of patient treatments.
  • Make sure to record all your expenses for the tax report.
note

Used for jotting down brief pieces of information or observations, often informal and personal.

  • She made a note of the meeting time in her diary.
  • Please note that the office will be closed tomorrow.
register

Used in formal or official contexts, often to denote enrollment or listing in an official capacity.

  • You need to register for the course by the end of this week.
  • The births of all citizens must be registered with the local authority.

Examples of usage

  • his first duty was to log the officer's details

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'log' comes from the Old Norse word 'lóg,' which means a fallen tree or piece of wood.
  • In the 15th century, 'log' was also used to refer to a record or record book.
  • The transition from wood to recording information reflects how language evolves over time.

Nature

  • Logs can provide habitats for many animals, like insects, birds, and fungi, contributing to biodiversity.
  • Decaying logs are crucial for soil enrichment as they break down and return nutrients to the earth.
  • Many forest ecosystems rely on logs to create structure and stability within habitats.

Craft and Utility

  • Logs can be transformed into various products, such as furniture, firewood, and paper.
  • Log cabins, made from interlocking timber, are a traditional form of rustic housing that has deep historical roots.
  • In some cultures, logs are used in rituals and celebrations, symbolizing strength and life.

Technology

  • In computing, 'log' refers to a record of events or actions carried out by a system, crucial for troubleshooting.
  • Activity logging helps developers understand user behavior and improve software performance.
  • Logging data has become a fundamental element in cybersecurity for monitoring and tracing activities.

Literature

  • Logs have a presence in literary works, often symbolizing journey or change, as seen in classical and modern literature.
  • The term 'log' is found in the phrase 'logbook,' which refers to a record of events and is used in various narratives.
  • Diaries and letters in literature may metaphorically resemble logs, capturing personal thoughts and experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "log" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tronco

🇮🇳 लकड़ी का टुकड़ा

🇩🇪 Holzstück

🇮🇩 bongkahan kayu

🇺🇦 колода

🇵🇱 kłoda

🇯🇵 丸太

🇫🇷 bûche

🇪🇸 tronco

🇹🇷 kütük

🇰🇷 통나무

🇸🇦 جذع

🇨🇿 kmen

🇸🇰 kmen

🇨🇳 木头

🇸🇮 deblo

🇮🇸 trjábolur

🇰🇿 бөрене

🇬🇪 მორი

🇦🇿 kütük

🇲🇽 tronco

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,635, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.