documentary evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

"documentary evidence" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to evidence which is presented in a written or recorded document or documents. For example: "A conviction was possible only after the prosecution presented a large amount of documentary evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is documentary evidence for his claims.

The Guardian - Film

"We have documentary evidence," he said.

The New York Times

But the commission found "no documentary evidence for this call".

The New York Times

Documentary evidence is provided chiefly by relief carvings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Little documentary evidence has emerged about the photograph's provenance.

The New York Times - Arts

No documentary evidence for such a view has survived, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I've seen documentary evidence that they have the funds available.

The Guardian - Sport

And we have documentary evidence to prove that they didn't".

The Guardian

There is a mass of microscopic documentary evidence.

The Guardian - Books

Actual documentary evidence of his formative years is scant.

The New York Times - Science

These fabrications offer truths, as does the documentary evidence.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "documentary evidence", ensure that the documents are properly sourced and authenticated to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all "documentary evidence" is inherently reliable. Always verify the authenticity and accuracy of documents before using them as evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "documentary evidence" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies tangible, recorded information used to support a claim or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its use across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "documentary evidence" is a grammatically correct and very common noun phrase used to denote recorded information serving as proof. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds usage across various contexts, especially in news, science and encyclopedias. To ensure proper usage, verify the authenticity of the documents presented. Semantically related alternatives include "written proof" and "official record". Overall, understanding the proper context and verification methods is crucial for effectively utilizing "documentary evidence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

written proof

Focuses on the written nature of the evidence, rather than its documentary form.

recorded evidence

Highlights that the evidence is in a recorded format, not necessarily written.

hard evidence

Emphasizes the irrefutable nature of the evidence.

official record

Emphasizes the official and formal nature of the documentation.

authenticated documents

Stresses the verification and validation of the documents.

supporting documents

Highlights the role of the documents in backing up a claim or argument.

archival material

Refers to evidence stored in archives, implying historical significance.

substantiating data

Focuses on the data aspect and its ability to confirm something.

paper trail

Suggests a sequence of documents providing evidence of past events.

historical records

Specifies that the evidence pertains to historical events.

FAQs

How is "documentary evidence" used in legal contexts?

"Documentary evidence" is presented in court to support claims or arguments. It can include contracts, letters, emails, and other written or recorded materials.

What's the difference between "documentary evidence" and circumstantial evidence?

"Documentary evidence" is direct proof in written or recorded form, while circumstantial evidence /s/circumstantial+evidence relies on inference to connect it to a conclusion.

What types of sources provide reliable "documentary evidence"?

Reliable sources for "documentary evidence" include government archives, academic institutions, and reputable news organizations.

What can I say instead of "documentary evidence"?

You can use alternatives like "written proof", "official record", or "hard evidence" depending on the context.