Records: meaning, definitions and examples

📝
Add to dictionary

records

 

[ˈrɛkərdz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

keeping information

Written or spoken information about something that is stored in a system and can be looked at or used

Synonyms

archives, documents, files.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
records

Use this word when referring to stored information or data, often in a systematic and organized manner. It can be used in both personal and official contexts.

  • The hospital keeps records of all the patients.
  • She meticulously maintains her personal records.
documents

This term is used when talking about any written, printed, or electronic matter that provides information, evidence, or serves as an official record.

  • He signed all the documents for the new job.
  • She kept the documents in a secure folder.
files

Refers to a collection of documents about a particular subject or specific individual, usually organized in a particular order and often in a digital format.

  • The lawyer reviewed the files before the meeting.
  • She saved the project files on her computer.
archives

This word is suitable when referring to a collection of historical documents or records that are preserved for their long-term value. It often implies careful storage and preservation.

  • The national archives hold documents dating back centuries.
  • Researchers can access the archives for their historical studies.

Examples of usage

  • The company keeps detailed financial records.
  • The nurse will take your medical history and update your records.
  • There is no record of him ever having been a member.
  • The database contains records of all the library books.
  • He set a new world record in the 100-metre dash.
Context #2 | Noun

best achievement

The best result or achievement that has ever been reached in a particular sport or activity

Synonyms

achievement, feat, milestone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
records

Used mostly for documenting or keeping track of information, achievements, data, or events over time.

  • The school keeps detailed records of each student's progress
  • The hospital has electronic medical records for all its patients
achievement

Used to describe something accomplished with effort, skill, or courage. Often refers to personal or professional success.

  • Graduating from university is a major achievement
  • Her scientific discovery was a remarkable achievement
milestone

Describes a significant point in development or progress. Often used in the context of life events, projects, or long-term goals.

  • Buying a first house is a big milestone in many people's lives
  • Reaching one million users was a major milestone for the startup
feat

Refers to a notable act or accomplishment that requires great skill, strength, or cunning. Often implies something impressive or difficult.

  • Climbing Mount Everest is a significant feat
  • Breaking the world record in swimming is an incredible feat

Examples of usage

  • He broke the world record for the long jump.
  • She holds the record for the most goals scored in a season.
  • The record for the marathon has been broken.
Context #3 | Verb

set down in writing

To set down in writing or some other permanent form for later reference, especially officially

Synonyms

document, note, register.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
records

Refers to documents containing official or historical information that is usually kept in a systematic and organized manner.

  • Medical records, financial records, school records
document

A written, printed, or electronic matter that provides information or evidence. It is often formal and official.

  • Passport, birth certificate, legal document
note

A brief written message or reminder, usually informal and concise. Used for personal or internal communication.

  • Meeting notes, personal note, a note to a friend
register

An official list or record, often containing names or items with specific details. It can also denote the act of recording names or information officially.

  • Voter register, hotel guest register, school register

Examples of usage

  • The police officer recorded the suspect's statement.
  • The secretary recorded the meeting minutes.
  • The scientist recorded the data in his notebook.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin 'recordari', which means 'to remember or recall'.
  • In ancient times, scrolls were used to keep records of important events, like taxes and victories.
  • The first modern record keeping began in the Renaissance when businesses started tracking finances.

Pop Culture

  • Vinyl records, a popular music format, saw a resurgence in the 21st century due to their nostalgic and unique sound.
  • Guinness World Records, first published in 1955, was created to settle pub disputes over record-breaking achievements.
  • The 'record industry' refers to the business of making and selling music, significantly influencing pop culture.

Science

  • In medicine, 'medical records' are crucial for tracking patient history and ensuring safe treatment.
  • Scientific records are essential for replicating experiments and validating findings in research.
  • The process of archiving data in scientific fields has advanced with digital technology, enabling vast amounts of information to be stored.

Technology

  • Digital records have transformed how we store and access information, from cloud storage to blockchain technology.
  • Record keeping software applications help businesses organize vast amounts of data efficiently.
  • Big data analytics allows companies to track consumer behavior based on their records for better services.

Society

  • Legal records, like birth and marriage certificates, are essential for establishing identity and rights.
  • Cultural records, such as oral traditions, help preserve the stories and heritage of communities.
  • Environmental records, like climate data, are crucial for understanding and addressing challenges like climate change.

Translations

Translations of the word "records" in other languages:

🇵🇹 registros

🇮🇳 रिकॉर्ड्स

🇩🇪 Aufzeichnungen

🇮🇩 catatan

🇺🇦 записи

🇵🇱 zapisy

🇯🇵 記録

🇫🇷 enregistrements

🇪🇸 registros

🇹🇷 kayıtlar

🇰🇷 기록

🇸🇦 سجلات

🇨🇿 záznamy

🇸🇰 záznamy

🇨🇳 记录

🇸🇮 zapisi

🇮🇸 skráningar

🇰🇿 жазбалар

🇬🇪 ჩანაწერები

🇦🇿 qeydlər

🇲🇽 registros

Word Frequency Rank

At #890 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.