Papers: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'papers' to generally refer to multiple documents, often in the context of official, academic, or personal collections. This term is versatile and can be used in various settings.

• I need to organize my papers before the meeting.
• She has a stack of papers to grade.

Utilize 'document' when referring to a specific file or written piece of information, often in an official or formal context. This is suitable for legal, business, or administrative settings.

• Please sign this document and return it to HR.
• The historical document will be displayed in the museum.

Employ 'sheet' when referring to a single piece of paper, especially in more casual or descriptive settings. This word often relates to a physical piece of paper.

• He wrote his notes on a single sheet of paper.
• Please pass me a blank sheet.

Parchment is best used for historical or formal contexts referring to material made from animal skin used for writing. Often associated with ancient or scholarly texts.

• The ancient scrolls were written on delicate parchment.
• She received a beautifully designed parchment for her graduation.

Refers to documents or written works, typically in a more formal or academic context. It could also refer to exams or assignments given to students, generally used in a broad sense.

• She submitted her research papers to the professor.
• I need to collect my papers from the printer.

Refers to daily or weekly publications that report on current events, weather, sports, and other news. It is commonly read by the general public to stay informed about local and global happenings.

• She reads the newspaper every morning over breakfast.
• The newspaper reported a significant drop in unemployment rates.

Used primarily for academic or professional publications that come out at regular intervals, or as a personal daily record of experiences and thoughts. It often implies in-depth analysis or personal reflection.

• He published his findings in a scientific journal.
• She writes in her journal every night before bed.

A broad term for any publication that comes out at regular intervals, such as magazines, journals, or newsletters. It suggests a focus on specific topics or fields and is generally used in formal or scholarly contexts.

• The library subscribes to several periodicals related to medical research.
• He is a regular contributor to a monthly periodical on environmental issues.

Used when referring to general paperwork or multiple pieces of written work, often in informal or non-specific contexts.

• I need to sort through my papers and find that receipt.
• The teacher gave us our graded papers back.

Used to refer to any written or printed paper, especially official ones. It’s a general term that can apply to a wide range of contexts, both formal and informal.

• Please review the attached document.
• The report is an important document for our project.

Used specifically when referring to documents that have legal significance, such as contracts, wills, or court filings.

• The lawyer asked me to sign the legal document.
• Make sure to read the legal document carefully before signing.

Used when referring to a formal document that verifies a particular fact, often an achievement, completion, or qualification.

• She received a certificate for completing the course.
• The birth certificate is required for passport application.