existing document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "existing document" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a document that is already in existence, often in contexts such as legal, academic, or business discussions. Example: "Before we proceed with the new proposal, let's review the existing document to ensure we are aligned with previous agreements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Travellers should allow at least three weeks to obtain a new passport at the standard prices, although any remaining time on their existing document will be added to the new one.

The Guardian

The existing document — part of 12,000 pages of original Dutch records — has legally been in the custody of the successive state governments of New York: Dutch, British, then American.

The New York Times

Joyce said they would ensure the National party's aspirations were clearly outlined in the Coalition agreement, but he signalled they were unlikely to seek any major changes given the existing document is only five months old.

The Guardian

Coleman was not present for Wales' pre-match press conference, nor their final training session at the Philip II Arena after he had to rush to Newport on Thursday morning in order to obtain a new passport, having realised he had lost the existing document on Wednesday night.

Independent

The first step that one tool should do is to map the existing document to the Validator Model though the primitives described in Sect.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

A new ISO Technical Report has been drafted to update the existing document and combine its two parts into a single publication.

Flow Measurement and Instrumentation

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

As part of the NHS End of Life Programme, Newcastle upon Tyne PCT Specialist Palliative Care Team has developed training on ACP and identified documentation for staff to use from a review of existing documents [ 20].

BMC Geriatrics

Another way these programs improve in accuracy is by analyzing existing documents for new words and for your syntax.

The New York Times - Tech

In May, the bureau introduced two prototypes for a simplified, one-page form that would combine existing documents.

The New York Times

By most accounts, Sik's manuscript said nothing very new; it compiled existing documents related to the subject for public consumption.

The New Yorker

In May, the bureau brought out two prototypes for a simplified, one-page form that would combine and replace existing documents.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a document that has already been mentioned or is understood within the context, use "existing document" to clearly distinguish it from any new or forthcoming documents.

Common error

Avoid using "existing document" when "current document" or "original document" is more appropriate. Ensure the term accurately reflects whether you're emphasizing the document's prior existence, its present state, or its initial form.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "existing document" functions as a noun phrase, where "existing" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "document". It identifies a specific document that is already in place or has been previously created. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

29%

Science

42%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "existing document" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a document already in place, suitable for various contexts ranging from news reports to scientific papers. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to pinpoint a specific document, distinguishing it from newer or proposed ones. Its usage is particularly frequent in Science and News & Media, reflecting its neutrality and precision. Remember to consider context when using the phrase, as alternatives like "current document" or "original document" may be more appropriate depending on the intended emphasis. Avoid confusing it with similar terms, and ensure the term accurately reflects whether you're highlighting the document's prior existence, its present state, or its initial form.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current document

Replaces "existing" with "current", indicating a focus on the present state of the document.

pre-existing document

Emphasizes that the document existed before a specific point in time or event.

original document

Highlights the document's status as the first or initial version.

extant document

A more formal synonym for "existing document", suitable for academic or legal contexts.

available document

Indicates that the document is accessible or ready for use.

present document

Similar to "current document", focusing on the document at hand.

on-hand document

Suggests the document is readily available or easily accessible.

archived document

Implies the document has been stored for future reference.

established document

Highlights that document is accepted.

legacy document

Highlights document is older and maintained to not impact compatibility.

FAQs

How to use "existing document" in a sentence?

You can use "existing document" to refer to a document that is already present or has been previously mentioned, like in the sentence: "Before creating a new policy, review the "existing document" to see what changes are needed."

What can I say instead of "existing document"?

You can use alternatives like "current document", "pre-existing document", or "original document", depending on the context.

When should I use "pre-existing document" instead of "existing document"?

"Pre-existing document" emphasizes that the document existed before a certain event or time, while "existing document" simply refers to a document that is already present. For example, "The new regulations do not apply to any "pre-existing document"s."

Is there a difference between "existing document" and "available document"?

"Existing document" refers to the presence of a document, while "available document" indicates that the document is accessible or ready for use. You might say, "While an "existing document" outlines the guidelines, it isn't an "available document" because it's still under review."