a compendium

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a compendium" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a collection or compilation of information, often summarizing a particular subject or topic. Example: "The book serves as a compendium of the latest research in environmental science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A Compendium of Kisses.

The Economist

It is a compendium of allusions.

The New Yorker

(See a compendium of clips from the film).

The New Yorker

This, the Malaysian national dish, is in truth a compendium.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The poem is itself a compendium of my favorites.

The New Yorker

As a result, it was a compendium of compromises.

The Economist

The result is more a compendium than a unified history.

The Economist

It's like he's doing a compendium of American music.

The Guardian

His play is a compendium of undramatic devices.

The Guardian

Amgen also managed to list the unapproved uses in a reference called a compendium.

The New York Times

It's a compendium of archival odds and ends: postcards, snapshots, arcane pronouncements.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a compendium", ensure that the items or information included are related and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "a compendium" if the collection is not reasonably comprehensive. Instead, opt for words such as "collection" or "selection".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a compendium" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a comprehensive collection or summary, as evidenced by Ludwig, and its function is to describe a comprehensive resource.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a compendium" is a noun phrase denoting a comprehensive collection or summary of information. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in formal and scientific contexts like news media and scientific publications. When using the phrase, ensure the included content is related and contributes to a thorough understanding. Ludwig shows that while alternatives like "a collection" or "a compilation" exist, "a compendium" suggests a greater level of comprehensiveness and organization. Avoid overstating the completeness of a collection by using this phrase when it's not warranted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a collection

Focuses on gathering items together without necessarily implying completeness or organization.

a compilation

Implies a more deliberate arrangement of collected items, often for a specific purpose.

a digest

Suggests a condensed version of information, focusing on key points.

an anthology

Specifically refers to a collection of literary works, like poems or stories.

a treasury

Evokes a sense of valuable and carefully selected items.

a syllabus

Outlines the topics covered in an educational course or program.

an inventory

Is a detailed list of items, typically for business or organizational purposes.

a registry

An official record or list of names, items, or transactions.

an encyclopedia

A comprehensive reference work containing articles on a wide range of subjects or on aspects of one particular field.

a miscellany

Is a collection of diverse items, often lacking a unifying theme.

FAQs

How to use "a compendium" in a sentence?

You can use "a compendium" to describe a collection of information, like "This book is a compendium of historical facts".

What's the difference between "a compendium" and "a collection"?

"A compendium" implies a more comprehensive and organized collection than a simple "a collection", suggesting a summary of a particular subject.

What can I say instead of "a compendium"?

Alternatives include "a compilation", "a summary", or "a collection", depending on the context and the degree of comprehensiveness you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a compendium" in informal writing?

While generally suitable for formal writing, "a compendium" can also be used in informal contexts when you want to emphasize the comprehensive nature of a collection or summary. Consider the audience and the desired tone.