preparing a document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preparing a document" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of creating or organizing a document for a specific purpose. Example: "I am currently preparing a document that outlines our project proposal for the upcoming meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The WHF is currently preparing a document for the UN secretary general that calls for cardiovascular health to be factored into the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Guardian

Last week, Reuters quoted Mr. Patino as saying his government was preparing a document in which it would argue that Britain is legally obliged to give Mr. Assange permission to travel to South America.

The New York Times

Foreign Minister Ricardo Patino said the Ecuadorean government was preparing a document in which it would argue that Britain is legally "obliged" to give Mr. Assange permission to travel to South America.

The New York Times

The material is to be kept at the Ministry of Culture, which is also preparing a document to be signed by publishers in which they will pledge not to distribute books the government deems offensive.

The New York Times

So far, this vision is lacking, though a few ambitious types are working on it.The International Forum on Globalisation, based in San Francisco, has been preparing a document that it hopes will win the support of a wide range of activist groups.

The Economist

"Before, if you were preparing a document and collaborating with two or three colleagues, you'd each be using PCs, software and intermediate servers, resulting in thousands and thousands of watts of electricity being used.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Meanwhile, the Bush Administration prepared a document defining the procedures by which the military commissions would operate.

The New Yorker

Maack and her team at Mayer Brown prepared a document explaining what Nada would need to say if she made it to Dulles.

The New Yorker

In the era before computers, investigators would sometimes examine typewriters to determine the make and model used to prepare a document.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In December 2009, the Justice Department revealed that the Department of Homeland Security monitored the Nation of Islam in 2007, and that its Office of Intelligence and Analysis had prepared a document, "Nation of Islam: Uncertain Leadership Succession Poses Risk".

The New York Times

In April 1963, the Joint Chiefs of Staff prepared a document examining all available options -- from blockading China and infiltrating and sabotaging the program, to air attacks on the facilities, backing a Taiwanese invasion of China and launching a tactical nuclear attack.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "preparing a document", consider your audience and tailor the language and content accordingly. Clearly define the purpose of the document before you begin.

Common error

Avoid using overly general terms when "preparing a document". Be specific and precise in your wording to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preparing a document" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, where it describes the action of creating or getting a document ready.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preparing a document" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase that functions as a noun, describing the action of creating or drafting a written work. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, including news, science, and business. While not overly frequent, it’s a versatile phrase suitable for neutral to professional communication. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key, avoiding vague language to ensure the document's purpose is well-defined. Alternatives like "drafting a document" or "creating a document" can offer slightly different nuances depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drafting a document

Focuses more on the initial writing stage of the document.

creating a document

Emphasizes the act of bringing a document into existence.

writing a document

A general term for producing a document through writing.

compiling a document

Suggests gathering information from various sources to form a single document.

developing a document

Implies a more involved and iterative process of creating the document.

composing a document

Highlights the act of carefully putting together the content of the document.

putting together a document

Informal way of saying creating a document.

formulating a document

Suggests giving shape or form to the content of a document.

generating a document

Emphasizes producing a document, often through automated means.

assembling a document

Highlights the process of gathering and arranging the parts of a document.

FAQs

What does "preparing a document" mean?

The phrase "preparing a document" refers to the process of creating, drafting, or compiling a written work, often for a specific purpose, such as providing information, making a proposal, or presenting an argument.

What are some alternatives to "preparing a document"?

You can use alternatives like "drafting a document", "creating a document", or "compiling a document" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "preparing a document" or "prepare a document"?

"Preparing a document" is a gerund phrase often used as a noun, for example, "Preparing a document is time-consuming". "Prepare a document" is an imperative verb phrase, used as a command or instruction, for example, "Prepare a document outlining the project goals".

How do I ensure clarity when "preparing a document"?

To ensure clarity when "preparing a document", use precise language, avoid jargon, organize your content logically, and proofread carefully. Consider having someone else review the document for feedback.