go through papers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "go through papers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of examining, reviewing, or sorting through documents or written materials. Example: "I need to go through the papers on my desk to find the report for the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I basically would sneak up to his chambers at 7 o'clock in the morning and interview him and go through papers," the reporter, Stephen Wermiel, said last week.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

That means workers at the bureau's tracing center often must call gun makers and sellers and go through paper files to identify the buyer of a gun linked to a crime.

The New York Times

The carpet, gray with geometric patterns, is a reproduction of a design by Josef Hoffmann — "I have the original, but it would be ruined," he said — and the couch and two armchairs in which he has coffee with guests, or sits and goes through papers, were also designed by Hoffmann.

The New Yorker

General Atta Muhammad, 37, a tall, black-bearded man who led the military offensive, was receiving people and going through papers in his headquarters not far from the blue-and-turquoise-tiled shrine of Hazrat Ali, cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.

The New York Times

He said he went through paper "in and out boxes", call data lists, and shredded and openly disposed of material in the NOTW's offices.

Independent

If the diplomats knew anything of the "harrowing prison hell" Knox was going through (as one paper put it), they are keeping those reports under wraps.

BBC

"Did you go through his papers?" she asked.

The New York Times - Magazine

In my role as my students' editor, I go through their papers with them privately a comma at a time.

The New Yorker

Who will now take time to build up her trust, go through her papers, and work out what's really going on in her life?

The Guardian

His wife, Cookie, thinks she may soon be strong enough to go through his papers at home to meet requests for the other songs.

The New York Times

After her father died in 1936, Mrs. Nauts, who was at home raising two daughters, decided to go through his papers to write his biography.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "go through papers", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are looking for or what you intend to achieve by examining the documents.

Common error

In formal or academic writing, consider using more precise verbs like "examine", "analyze", or "review" instead of the phrasal verb "go through papers" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go through papers" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating the action of examining, reviewing, or sorting through documents or written materials. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

6%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "go through papers" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of examining or reviewing documents. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, particularly in news, general and professional contexts. While suitable for most situations, formal writing may benefit from more precise alternatives like "examine" or "analyze". Remember to consider the context and intended tone when choosing this phrase to ensure clarity and effectiveness in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go over documents

A more conversational alternative, implying a review or rehearsal of the documents.

examine documents

Focuses on a careful and detailed inspection of the documents.

inspect documents

Focuses on a detailed visual examination for completeness or accuracy.

review paperwork

Specifically refers to the act of formally assessing documents.

analyze documents

Highlights a systematic assessment of the information within the documents.

scrutinize documents

Implies a thorough and critical examination.

investigate files

Suggests a more in-depth inquiry, often looking for specific information.

peruse files

Suggests a casual yet attentive reading of the files.

check the records

Emphasizes the act of verifying information in official records.

assess paperwork

Implies evaluating the importance or value of the paperwork.

FAQs

How can I use "go through papers" in a sentence?

You can use "go through papers" when you want to express the action of examining or reviewing documents. For example: "I need to go through these papers before the meeting."

What is a more formal alternative to "go through papers"?

More formal alternatives include "examine documents", "review paperwork", or "analyze documents", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "go through papers" and "scan papers"?

"Go through papers" implies a more detailed review, whereas "scan papers" suggests a quick overview to find specific information.

When is it appropriate to use "go through papers" in writing?

It's appropriate in most contexts, especially when you want a casual or conversational tone. For formal writing, consider more precise alternatives.