What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
documentation
Example
The project requires extensive documentation to ensure all steps are recorded. [documentation: noun]
Example
She spent the morning documenting the new software features. [documenting: gerund or present participle]
filing
Example
I need to do some filing to organize these invoices. [filing: noun]
Example
He spent the afternoon filing the client's paperwork. [filing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Filing is more commonly used than documentation in everyday language, especially in administrative or legal contexts. Documentation is more versatile and can be used in various fields, such as research, education, or creative writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between documentation and filing?
Filing is typically associated with a more formal and bureaucratic tone, while documentation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the field or purpose.