real document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "real document" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an authentic or genuine document, often in contrast to a fake or digital version. Example: "Please ensure that you submit a real document for verification purposes, rather than a scanned copy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The value of the business turns on its ability to deliver information management services, including virtual and real document storage.

The New York Times

"Enough work has been done by photoshop experts to show that this is not a real document," ClearCase_guy asserted on the conservative Web site Free Republic.

The New Yorker

The new Truffaut film "L'Enfant Sauvage" is based on a real document written by Jean Itard and published in Paris in 1806.

The New Yorker

But for Hollywood historians, it's even better: a real document about some of the industry's biggest egos, and how they fought their wars.

The New Yorker

By Penelope Gilliatt The New Yorker, September 12 , 1970P. 67 The new Truffaut film "L'Enfant Sauvage" is based on a real document written by Jean Itard and published in Paris in 1806.

The New Yorker

Already adept at withholding information -- this week's budget is an evasive Cliffs Notes of the real document, not out until April 3 -- the Bush administration is also benefiting from a pervasive Washington fallacy: Since the new president seems a better guy than Mr. Clinton, he deserves brownie points for character, whatever he's doing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It further disconnects the virtual from the real: documents have no fixed location.

The Economist

He had also insisted that the claims be for real, documented harm.

The New York Times

Furthermore, the use of "real" documents in assembling the narrative adds verisimilitude to a rich and outlandish story like this.

The Guardian - Books

Your first concussion was with the Islanders in 1990, when the Rangers' James Patrick hit you in a playoff game. A. That was the first real documented concussion.

The New York Times

Black-and-white photographs alternate with colorful illustrations, and history buffs will appreciate the inclusion of real documents like memos, newspaper clippings, magazine covers, and propaganda posters.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing authenticity, use "real document" to distinguish it from forgeries or digital representations. For example, request a "real document" for verification rather than a scanned copy.

Common error

Avoid using "real document" when the context already implies authenticity. For instance, saying "submit the real birth certificate document" is redundant because a birth certificate is understood to be a formal, authentic record.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real document" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "real" modifies the noun "document". This specifies the authenticity or genuineness of the document being referred to. This is confirmed by Ludwig, which identifies the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

25%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "real document" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to highlight the authenticity and genuineness of a document, as stated by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to distinguish an original, tangible record from a copy or fabrication. While its usage spans various contexts, it's especially prevalent in "news & media", "science", and "wiki" sources.

When using "real document", aim for precision and avoid redundancy; ensure the context warrants emphasizing authenticity. Alternatives like "genuine document" or "authentic document" offer similar meanings, and "official document" can be more appropriate when the document's sanctioned status is paramount. Therefore, it's a correct, helpful term that promotes clarity and assures legitimacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine document

Emphasizes the authenticity and lack of forgery in the document.

authentic document

Similar to "genuine document", highlighting the document's origin and trustworthiness.

official document

Indicates the document has been formally recognized or issued by an authority.

valid document

Focuses on the document meeting the necessary requirements and being legally sound.

original document

Highlights that the document is not a copy or reproduction.

verifiable document

Stresses the ability to confirm the document's accuracy and truthfulness.

factual record

Shifts the focus to the content of the document being based on facts.

bona fide document

A more formal way of saying "genuine document".

tangible record

Emphasizes the physical existence of the document.

hard copy

Highlights that the document exists in physical form, rather than digitally.

FAQs

How can I use "real document" in a sentence?

You can use "real document" to emphasize the authenticity of a record. For example: "The historian relied on a "genuine document" from the period to support their claims."

What are some alternatives to "real document"?

Alternatives include "authentic document", "official document", or "valid document" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between a "real document" and a "scanned document"?

Yes, a "real document" refers to the original, physical document, whereas a "scanned document" is a digital copy. The "real document" holds more weight as proof.

When should I use ""official document"" instead of "real document"?

Use ""official document"" when the document is issued or recognized by an authority. "Real document" emphasizes authenticity, while ""official document"" emphasizes its sanctioned status.