Record vs. Document

These verbs are synonymous, but they indicate different intentions behind the act. This lesson will clarify the difference between them.

What is the difference between 'record' and 'document'?

Both 'record' and 'document' mean to write down or keep information. However, 'record' often focuses on the act of capturing or storing information, while 'document' emphasizes keeping information or material to serve as evidence or support. This lesson will clarify the difference between these two verbs.

Reference vs. Evidence

'Record' generally means to make a written, auditory, or visual account of something, typically for the purpose of preserving or storing information for future reference. It focuses on creating a permanent or official representation of information. 'Document' also refers to the act of capturing or recording information, but it emphasizes the process of creating an official, detailed, or comprehensive record that provides evidence, support, or proof of something. For example:

The historian spent years recording the oral histories of the local community.

The historian spent years documenting the oral histories of the local community.

The two verbs can be used interchangeably, but 'record' implies keeping information as reference while 'document' emphasizes use of information as proof or support of existence of something.

He recorded the lecture so that he could review it later.

The lawyer documented all the evidence to support her case.

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