compile a list

USAGE SUMMARY

"compile a list" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to organize and assemble data. For example, "I need to compile a list of all our annual expenses for the past five years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I could compile a list, but won't for the moment.

The Guardian - Books

6. Compile a list of metaphors for summer.

The New York Times

As training camp approached, Schottenheimer asked Sanchez to compile a list of goals.

The New York Times - Sports

So I have tried to compile a list of my absolute must-read business books.

The New York Times

In pre-Gatsby fashion, Mr. Goulian asked him to compile a list of must-read books.

The New York Times

Bertrand Russell was once asked to compile a list of his twenty favorite words.

The New Yorker

Now it searches Web sites like Orbitz, hotels.com and cheaptickets.com to compile a list of hotels.

The New York Times

Rather, my intention was simply to compile a list of those translations I considered particularly noteworthy.

The Guardian - Books

This last option allowed us to compile a list of links and go through those.

The Guardian

Maybe we can compile a list of processed foods that no one really needs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lennox can simply compile a list of wishes not covered in his budget.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you need to create a list from multiple sources of data, use "compile a list" to indicate the collection and organization of that information.

Common error

While "compile a list" is similar to phrases like "make a list" or "create a list", it specifically suggests gathering information from various sources. Avoid using it when you're simply jotting down items off the top of your head.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compile a list" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of gathering and organizing information into a structured format. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. The examples provided illustrate its usage in various contexts, such as creating lists of books, goals, resources, or even potential donors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "compile a list" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the organized gathering of information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequency and presence across diverse platforms—from news outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian to collaborative wikis—underscore its widespread application. When using "compile a list", remember that it suggests the collection and arrangement of data from multiple sources, setting it apart from simpler alternatives like "make a list". By understanding its nuances, you can employ this phrase effectively in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a list

Simple substitution of "compile" with "create", indicating the act of bringing a list into existence.

put together a list

"Put together" is used instead of "compile", suggesting the assembly of items into a list.

draw up a list

"Draw up" replaces "compile", emphasizing the act of preparing and formalizing a list.

formulate a list

"Formulate" is used instead of "compile", suggesting the careful and systematic creation of a list.

assemble a list

"Assemble" is used instead of "compile", indicating that the list is created by bringing together different elements.

gather a list

"Gather" replaces "compile", highlighting the collection aspect of forming a list.

develop a list

"Develop" is used instead of "compile", emphasizing the gradual creation and refinement of a list.

prepare a list

"Prepare" replaces "compile", suggesting the act of getting a list ready.

make a listing

Changes the structure to use the noun form of "list" and "make" instead of "compile".

collate a list

"Collate" is a more formal synonym for "compile", suggesting the arrangement of information in a list.

FAQs

How can I use "compile a list" in a sentence?

You can use "compile a list" to describe the process of gathering information from different sources to create a list. For example, "I need to compile a list of all the vendors we've used this year."

What are some alternatives to "compile a list"?

Alternatives include "create a list", "put together a list", or "draw up a list", depending on the context.

Is "compile a list" formal or informal?

"Compile a list" is generally considered neutral to formal. It's suitable for professional, academic, and general contexts. More informal alternatives might include "make a list" or "jot down a list".

What's the difference between "compile a list" and "make a list"?

"Compile a list" implies gathering information from various sources to create the list, whereas "make a list" is a more general term that simply means to create a list, regardless of the source of the information.