a historical record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a historical record" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a document or account that preserves information about past events or situations. Example: "The museum houses a historical record of the town's founding and development over the centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is, in its way, a historical record.

The Guardian

The exhibition, too, leaves a lasting impression and confirms how art can create a historical record.

The Economist

For PBS the series also repairs a historical record of its own.

The New York Times - Arts

She conducted interviews and took video, creating a historical record of breadth and depth.

The New York Times

Paul Greengrass's film was gripping as drama yet unavoidably dubious as a historical record.

The Guardian - Film

"But I felt very strongly that we needed to air this program as a historical record".

The New York Times - Arts

The president ordered Mr. Fleischer to take notes, so there would be a historical record.

The New York Times - Arts

It doesn't have to be in a library or a museum to be a historical record".

The New Yorker

"Because there is a historical record" for Chaska's commutation, Ms. Westerman said, "that's a good place to start".

The New York Times

"It's worth reminding Califano, Caryl and everyone else: A narrative film is not a documentary or a historical record.

Independent

While that record is considered almost unbreakable, the league doesn't have a historical record for shots attempted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about the past, consider if "a historical record" accurately describes the information source, or if a more specific term like "archive" or "account" would be more fitting.

Common error

Avoid presenting personal opinions or interpretations as "a historical record". Ensure it's based on verifiable evidence and documented sources.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a historical record" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the direct object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, pointing to its role in identifying something that preserves the past.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a historical record" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe something that documents or preserves information about the past. Ludwig AI's analysis, along with the many examples provided, confirm its correct usage across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. When employing this phrase, ensure accuracy and base it on verifiable evidence. Remember that alternatives like "a historical account" or "a historical archive" might be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a historical recording

Focuses on audio or video documentation of the past, rather than written accounts.

a cultural record

Emphasizes the preservation of cultural practices and traditions over time.

a historical archive

Highlights a collection of historical documents or materials.

a historical register

Suggests an official list or inventory of historical items or events.

a historical documentation

Emphasizes the process of recording and preserving historical information.

a chronological record

Highlights the arrangement of historical events in time sequence.

a historical account

Implies a narrative or explanation of past events.

a documentary history

Focuses on history conveyed through documentary evidence.

a legacy

Emphasizes the lasting impact or consequences of past events.

the annals of history

Implies a formal and comprehensive recording of historical events.

FAQs

How to use "a historical record" in a sentence?

You can use "a historical record" to describe any collection of data, documents, or artifacts that provides information about the past. For example, "The museum preserves "a historical record" of the city's development".

What can I say instead of "a historical record"?

You can use alternatives like "a historical account", "historical documentation", or "a historical archive" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "a historical record" and "a historical account"?

"A historical record" is a general term for any preserved information about the past, while "a historical account" specifically implies a narrative or explanation of past events.

Is it appropriate to use "a historical record" when referring to fictional events?

No, ""a historical record"" should only be used when referring to real, documented events. Fictional narratives should be described as such.