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filing

n.
US //ˈfaɪɫɪŋ// UK //fˈaɪlɪŋ// fil·ing
  1. 1 organizing documents (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of putting papers or digital files into a specific order so you can find them later.

    the systematic process of arranging and storing documents or records in a specific order for future retrieval.

    Example

    I spent the whole afternoon doing the filing because my desk was a mess.

    Example

    The administrative assistant overhauled the entire filing system, transitioning from a chronological to an alphabetical arrangement to improve efficiency.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun for the general activity.

  2. 2 official document (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    a formal document that has been sent to a court, government, or official office.

    a formal document or record submitted to a legal or regulatory authority.

    Example

    The company made a new filing with the tax office yesterday.

    Example

    The court rejected the latest filing on the grounds that the evidence provided was insufficient to warrant a new hearing.

    Usage

    In this sense, the noun is countable.

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  1. 3 tiny metal pieces (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    very small pieces of metal or wood that are rubbed off when using a tool called a file.

    small particles or shavings of material, typically metal, removed by the abrasive action of a file.

    Example

    The magnet pulled the iron filings across the paper in a pattern.

    Example

    The technician carefully swept away the metal filings to prevent them from contaminating the delicate internal components of the engine.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural form.

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