# file

/ˈfaɪɫ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/file
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. digital data

noun · CEFR A2

a collection of information stored on a computer or phone with a specific name.

For teachers: a discrete unit of data storage on a digital medium, identified by a filename and typically associated with a specific application.

- I saved the report as a PDF file so everyone could open it.
- The system administrator warned that any temporary files left in the shared directory would be deleted automatically at midnight.

### 2. paper records

noun · CEFR B1

a folder or box used to keep papers and documents in order.

For teachers: a collection of physical papers or records organized for easy reference and storage.

- The lawyer pulled a thick file from the cabinet to check the dates.
- The HR department maintains a confidential file for every employee, documenting their performance reviews and contract history.

### 3. smoothing tool

noun · CEFR B2

a metal tool with a rough surface used to make edges smooth or to shape things.

For teachers: a hand tool with a hardened, abrasive surface used for smoothing, shaping, or removing small amounts of material from a workpiece.

- She used a small metal file to smooth the sharp edge of the key.
- The carpenter used a fine-toothed file to refine the joints of the cabinet before applying the final layer of varnish.

### 4. a line of people

noun · CEFR B2

a line of people standing or walking one behind the other.

For teachers: a line of persons or things arranged one behind another, as opposed to a rank where they are side by side.

- The students walked in single file through the narrow hallway.
- The soldiers marched in a long file along the mountain path, maintaining a strict distance between one another for safety.

### 5. to submit documents

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to officially give a document to a court, office, or person in charge.

For teachers: to submit a legal document or formal application to a relevant authority for official processing.

- You must file your tax return before the end of the month.
- The plaintiff's attorney intends to file a formal complaint with the high court early tomorrow morning to prevent the demolition.

### 6. to smooth a surface

verb · CEFR B2

to use a rough tool to make something smooth or to change its shape.

For teachers: to rub or shape a surface using a file or similar abrasive tool.

- He spent the afternoon filing the rough edges of the metal gate.
- After cutting the pipe, the plumber carefully filed the inner rim to ensure a smooth flow of water through the joint.

### 7. to walk in a line

verb · CEFR B2

to walk in a line, one person after another.

For teachers: to march or move in a line or file, often in a solemn or orderly fashion.

- The audience began to file out of the theatre after the show ended.
- The mourners filed past the casket in silence, paying their final respects before the ceremony concluded.

## Examples

- I saved the new file on my desktop.
- The lawyer asked his assistant to pull the client's file from the cabinet before the meeting started.
- The system administrator warned that the corrupted file could compromise the integrity of the entire database if it were not isolated immediately.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.