file

Information stored together on a computer under one name.

• Please open the file.
• I saved three files in this folder.
• Can you send me the original file?

Common phrases: save a file, open a file, text file, image file

A collection of papers or records about one person, subject, or case.

• Her medical file is on the desk.
• The lawyer read the file before the meeting.
• These files contain information about former employees.

How to use it: a file on someone/something (The police opened a file on the missing painting.)

Similar words: dossier, records

Common phrases: case file, patient file, file on someone, archived file

A folder or other container used to keep papers together and in order.

• Put the receipts in this file.
• She bought a blue file for her school papers.
• The empty files are in the cupboard.

Similar words: folder, binder

Common phrases: box file, plastic file, put in a file

A tool with a rough surface used to smooth or shape wood, metal, or nails.

• She shaped her nails with a file.
• Use a file to smooth the sharp edge.
• These files are designed for working on metal.

Similar words: rasp

Common phrases: nail file, metal file, use a file

A line of people standing or moving one behind another.

• The children walked in single file.
• A file of soldiers crossed the bridge.
• Two files of students entered the hall.

How to use it: in single file (We walked in single file along the narrow path.)

Similar words: line, column

Common phrases: single file, in single file, a long file

To put papers or records away in an organized system so you can find them later.

• Please file these receipts.
• I filed the letters by date.
• Where have you filed the insurance documents?

How to use it: file something under something (File the receipt under travel expenses.); file something away (She filed the signed contract away.)

Similar words: store, archive

Common phrases: file documents, file something away, file under something

To formally give a complaint or legal claim to an authority.

• He filed a complaint about the noise.
• The family filed a lawsuit against the hospital.
• Several customers have filed claims for compensation.

How to use it: file something against someone/something (Three workers filed complaints against the company.); file something with someone/something (She filed a complaint with the police.)

Similar words: lodge, submit

Common phrases: file a complaint, file a lawsuit, file charges

To send a report or news story to the person or organization that will use or publish it.

• The reporter filed her story at noon.
• He files a daily report from the border.
• Have you filed your interview yet?

How to use it: file something with someone/something (The reporter filed her story with the news agency.)

Similar words: submit, send

Common phrases: file a report, file a story, file copy