collecting records

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "collecting records" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of gathering or accumulating various types of records, such as data, documents, or information. Example: "The researcher is focused on collecting records from various historical archives to support her thesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

And he kept collecting records.

The New York Times - Arts

He began collecting records.

The New York Times

She doesn't earn a lot, she says, so collecting records isn't really an option.

The Guardian - Music

I was just collecting records and had a show on an underground radio station.

The Guardian - Music

Nothing to do now, but to start collecting records for next year.

The New York Times

He began collecting records in the 1930's, and spent some time touring with the bandleader Luis Russell.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Marc Richter collects records, makes records, and releases other people's records.

The New Yorker

By Sasha Frere-Jones October 26, 2009 Marc Richter collects records, makes records, and releases other people's records.

The New Yorker

They would have required hospitals and schools to collect records on undocumented patients and students.

The New York Times

An experienced seismologist can then interpret the collected records to map the underground formation contours.

Encyclopedia Britannica

didn't show up one night, so I showed up — everyone knew I collected records," Belinda said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid ambiguity, specify the type of "records" you are collecting. For example, instead of just saying "collecting records," specify "collecting vinyl records," "collecting data records," or "collecting historical records."

Common error

Ensure you're using "records" to refer to data or recorded media, not confusing it with "recorders," which are devices used to make recordings. For example, "He enjoys collecting records" is correct, while "He enjoys collecting recorders" would imply gathering recording devices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "collecting records" primarily functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun. It describes the activity of gathering "records," which can refer to various types of information, data, or recorded media. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "collecting records" is a versatile and commonly used gerund phrase that describes the act of gathering records, whether they are musical, historical, or data-related. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific research. While maintaining accuracy and specifying the type of records collected is essential to avoid ambiguity, understanding its usage can greatly enhance writing clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gathering data

Focuses on the act of accumulating information for analysis or reference, often in a systematic manner.

compiling information

Emphasizes the process of assembling data from various sources into a structured format.

accumulating documents

Highlights the act of gathering official or important documents, usually for legal or administrative purposes.

amassing a collection

Implies the creation of a substantial collection of items, often with the intention of preservation or display.

acquiring memorabilia

Specifically refers to the gathering of items of historical or personal significance.

procuring evidence

Refers to the act of obtaining items or information that can be used to support a legal case or argument.

assembling artifacts

Deals with the collection of objects of cultural or historical interest.

securing testimonials

Involves obtaining statements or endorsements from individuals, usually for marketing or promotional purposes.

hoarding possessions

Suggests an excessive accumulation of items, often with negative connotations.

building a library

Indicates the creation of a collection of books or other written materials.

FAQs

How can I use "collecting records" in a sentence?

You can use "collecting records" in a sentence to describe the act of gathering or accumulating records, such as "She is passionate about "collecting records" from the early 20th century" or "The agency is responsible for "collecting records" related to environmental compliance".

What are some synonyms for "collecting records"?

Alternatives to "collecting records" include "gathering data", "compiling information", or "accumulating documents". The best choice depends on the specific type of records being collected and the context.

Is "collecting records" formal or informal?

The phrase "collecting records" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the communication, rather than the phrase itself.

What's the difference between "collecting records" and "keeping records"?

"Collecting records" refers to the act of gathering them together, while "keeping records" refers to the act of maintaining and storing them. You might start by collecting records and then focus on keeping those records organized and safe.