ancient document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ancient document" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a historical text or manuscript that is very old and often of significant cultural or historical importance. Example: "The archaeologists discovered an ancient document that provided insights into the civilization's customs and beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Here is an authenticated, ancient document, after all, that confirms the ministry and life of Jesus.

The New York Times

John and Paul refused, and according to an ancient document known as "The Passion of SS.

The New York Times

Lawyers who argued the case said that it was the first in which copyright law had been applied in court to a reconstruction of an ancient document.

The New York Times

The Kojiki, though revered as the most ancient document concerning the myths and history of the Japanese people, was not included in collections of literature until well into the 20th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What a joy to have an ancient document in which the man singled out in the Bible as Christianity's foremost enemy turns out, arguably, to be Christ's best friend.

The New Yorker

Doubtless, the factual content was improved more often than not, but a residual confusion remains when the specimen at hand may be either a true copy of an ancient document or a medieval scholar's version of the subject matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

He claims they had access to ancient documents which have since been destroyed.

The Guardian - Film

In ancient documents the vessel was also referred to as hu or hulian.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The ancient documents that discuss the coup are called the Judicial Papyrus of Turin.

The New York Times - Science

The yi was often mentioned together with the pan in ancient documents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet another group of scientists at Kingston Lacy are members of Oxford University's Centre for the Study of Ancient Documents.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to an "ancient document", specify its type (e.g., scroll, papyrus, codex) for clarity, especially in academic or historical writing.

Common error

Avoid using "ancient document" when a more specific term (e.g., "manuscript", "charter", "inscription") would be more accurate and informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ancient document" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific type of historical artifact. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ancient document" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase to describe historical written records. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While its formality ranges from neutral to formal, it's essential to be specific when describing the type of document. Alternatives such as "historical manuscript" or "archaic record" may offer greater precision in certain situations. This guide offers best practices and error avoidance tips, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively use the phrase "ancient document".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

historical manuscript

Focuses on the handwritten nature and historical significance.

old manuscript

Emphasizes the age and handwritten form of the document.

ancient text

Highlights the textual content and its antiquity.

archaic record

Stresses the outdated nature and record-keeping aspect.

early writing

Focuses on the initial stages of written communication.

vintage document

Uses "vintage" to suggest age and value.

bygone record

Emphasizes that the record belongs to a past era.

antique script

Highlights the old style of writing.

ancient scroll

Specifically refers to a rolled manuscript.

historical artifact

Broadens the term to include any object of historical interest, of which documents can be a part.

FAQs

How can I use "ancient document" in a sentence?

You might say, "The historian studied the "ancient document" to understand the civilization's laws" or "The museum displayed the "ancient document", a rare glimpse into the past".

What are some alternatives to "ancient document"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "historical manuscript", "old text", or "archaic record".

Which is more appropriate: "ancient document" or "historical record"?

"Ancient document" specifically refers to a written item, whereas "historical record" is broader and can include any type of evidence from the past.

What makes a document "ancient"?

Generally, a document is considered "ancient" if it dates back to a distant past, often before the medieval period, and possesses historical and cultural significance.