repository

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "repository" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a large store of data or information, or a collection of specific items. For example: "We have a vast repository of knowledge about the history of our local area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We no longer wanted to be the place, the repository where those data lived, because we couldn't guarantee that they were methodologically rigorous enough for us to actually publish," said Erica L Smith, chief of BJS's law enforcement statistics unit.

The Guardian

If researchers feel it necessary to publish in certain subscription journals, there is always the option to use the green open access model and self-archive an author copy in an open repository.

The Guardian

The big step forward this year is Hefce's announcement that if university departments want research papers to be included in the next Research Excellence Framework (REF) then they have to be deposited in an open access repository within three months of the paper being accepted.

The Guardian

Before closing the case, however, agents noted the existence of a file that was to be used as a repository for future intelligence "regarding the Keystone XL pipeline".

The Guardian

The answer is a little abuse of an admin-only feature of GitHub repos - repository webhooks.

The Guardian

It it important to use $ENCRYPTION_PASSWORD as shown and not substitute your real password here as this file will be unencrypted in your repository.

The Guardian

One must also ask how much the disorder has become a convenient repository for the negative emotions you have about your life and relationships, how often other uncomfortable, but unrelated problems are blamed on the "disease", and how many issues are left unresolved because of your condition.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As long as no one is in a position to tell me how to interpret it, or that I must believe in the literal truth of holy writ, then I like there to be an established church, a repository of a long-shared cultural heritage, with a ceremonial function, and a source of genuine belief for many people, of whom I am not one.

The Guardian - Opinion

Like all celebrities he is the repository of the hopes and dreams of his admirers, mirroring his audience's desires.

The Guardian - Opinion

Pre-Google, his charming JR Hartley ads performed the magic trick of turning the deadly dull Yellow Pages into a repository of delight, a theatre of dreams.

The Guardian

Long the repository of third party moderate hopes, his party was blamed for sustaining the Tories rather than restraining them.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "repository" when referring to a central storage location that can be accessed, updated, and managed. For example, "a code repository" or "a data repository".

Common error

Avoid using "repository" when a simpler term like "storage" or "collection" is more appropriate. A "repository" implies organization and accessibility, not just mere holding.

Linguistic Context

The word "repository" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a place or container where something is stored, collected, or deposited. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and usable term in written English, emphasizing its role in representing storage locations for files or entrusted secrets.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "repository" is a noun that describes a place for storage, whether physical or digital. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. The term is most frequently encountered in news media, formal business writing, and scientific publications, signifying its formal register. Related terms include "archive", "database", and "depository", each with slightly different nuances. When using "repository", ensure it implies an organized and accessible storage system, not just a mere container. While often used to refer to digital or physical data storage, remember it can also be used in metaphorical contexts, like "a repository of knowledge".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depository

A direct synonym, focusing on safekeeping.

archive

Stresses the preservation of historical records.

data archive

Specifically refers to the archiving of data.

information store

Emphasizes the storage of information.

digital library

A collection of digital resources, often curated.

storage facility

Focuses on the physical aspect of storing items.

storehouse

Emphasizes a place where things are kept for future use.

database

Refers specifically to a structured collection of data.

collection

Highlights the act of gathering items together.

source

Focuses on where something originates from.

FAQs

How do I use "repository" in a sentence?

You can use "repository" to refer to a place where data or information is stored, such as "The library serves as a central "knowledge repository" for the community".

What are some alternatives to the word "repository"?

Depending on the context, you could use "archive", "database", "collection", or "depository" as alternatives to "repository".

What's the difference between "repository" and "database"?

While both store data, a "repository" often implies a broader, less structured collection, while a "database" is typically a structured collection of data organized for easy access and management.

Is "repository" formal or informal?

"Repository" is generally considered a neutral to formal term, suitable for professional, academic, and technical contexts, rather than informal conversation.