What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

annals

Example

The annals of ancient Rome provide valuable insights into the rise and fall of the empire. [annals: noun]

Example

The company's annals document its growth and development over the past century. [annals: plural noun]

Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Archives is more commonly used than annals in everyday language. Archives is a widely recognized term that is used in various contexts, such as libraries, museums, and government institutions. Annals, on the other hand, is less common and is mostly used in academic or scholarly settings.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between annals and archives?

Both annals and archives can be used in formal contexts, especially when referring to historical research or academic discussions. However, annals may sound more formal due to its association with scholarly publications and historical analysis.