file a report

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "file a report" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when you are referring to submitting a document or report to someone, either as part of a job or for a school assignment. For example, "I need to file a report to my supervisor by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"May I file a report?" he asked.

The New York Times

Mr. Regan said he would file a report.

The New Yorker

Nonetheless, Mr. Panzino wanted the police to respond and file a report.

The New York Times

They confided in Monsignor Wren, who urged them to file a report.

The New York Times

The user can simply mark an X on a map and file a report.

The Guardian

He would file a report with his superior in the provincial capital.

The New Yorker

The worker levelled criticism at them for failing to file a report.

The Guardian

I regret now that I didn't file a report on my own experience.

The Guardian

"Anyone could file a report and start this whole thing over again".

The New York Times - Magazine

"If it was stolen, you need to file a report," he said.

The New Yorker

Nearly always someone is watching, listening, moving off to file a report.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the process of reporting an incident to authorities or an organization, use "file a report" to ensure clarity and formality.

Common error

Ensure that you provide all necessary details when you "file a report". Missing information can delay or hinder the investigation process.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "file a report" is as a verb phrase, often used as an action to be taken by an individual or entity. Ludwig confirms that is a very common verb phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

22%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "file a report" is a very common and grammatically sound way to describe the act of submitting a formal document, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While primarily neutral in register, it can become more formal depending on the context. If you're looking for alternatives, consider "submit a report" or "lodge a report" for similar meanings. When writing, ensure you include all necessary information in your report to avoid delays. Ludwig AI reinforces the phrase's validity and widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit a report

Replaces "file" with "submit", emphasizing the act of handing in the report.

lodge a report

Uses "lodge" instead of "file", providing a slightly more formal tone.

make a report

Substitutes "file" with "make", offering a simpler and more direct alternative.

submit an incident report

Specifies the type of report being filed, adding clarity in certain contexts.

report an incident

Focuses on the act of reporting rather than the document itself.

officially report

Adds emphasis to the official nature of the reporting process.

record the event

Shifts the focus to recording an event rather than submitting a formal document.

register a complaint

Implies filing a report specifically to express dissatisfaction or grievance.

provide documentation

Replaces filing a report with providing written evidence or records.

lay charges

In specific context, to file a report becomes synonymous with "lay charges".

FAQs

How do I use "file a report" in a sentence?

You can use "file a report" to describe the act of submitting a formal document. For example, "I need to "file a report" about the incident".

What's the difference between "file a report" and "make a report"?

"File a report" typically implies submitting a formal, official document, whereas "make a report" is a more general term that could refer to creating any kind of report, formal or informal.

Which is correct, "file a report" or "filed a report"?

Both are correct, depending on the tense you want to use. "File a report" is the infinitive form, while "filed a report" is the past tense.

What can I say instead of "file a report"?

You can use alternatives like "submit a report", "lodge a report", or "make a report" depending on the context.