Definition

Noun: A flat, rectangular container, typically made of leather, fabric, or hard plastic, with a handle and often a hinged or zippered opening, used for carrying documents, papers, files, or books.

Usage

A briefcase is a portable case designed for carrying work-related documents and small items. It is commonly associated with business professionals, lawyers, and office workers. It is carried by hand using its handle.

Examples

• The lawyer arrived at the courthouse carrying a black leather briefcase.
• She packed her laptop and the contract into her briefcase before the meeting.
• He forgot his briefcase on the train, which contained important files.

Advanced Usage

• "To live out of a briefcase": An idiom describing a person, often a business traveler or consultant, who travels so frequently that their briefcase contains most of their immediate work essentials, symbolizing a transient lifestyle.
  • As a management consultant, he practically lived out of his briefcase, flying to a different city every week.

Variants and Related Words

• Attaché case: A specific, often rigid and box-like type of briefcase, traditionally used by diplomats (attachés).
• Portfolio: A large, flat case for carrying loose papers, drawings, or maps, sometimes used similarly to a briefcase but often without a handle or with a strap.
• Messenger bag: A soft-sided bag worn over the shoulder, often used as a more casual alternative to a briefcase for carrying similar items.

Synonyms

• Case
• Document case
• Attaché case (specific type)

Antonyms

• Backpack (a bag carried on the back, typically with two straps)
• Suitcase (a larger case for carrying clothes and personal belongings, usually for travel)

Related Phrases

• "Briefcase warrior": (Informal, sometimes derogatory) A person, often in management or consulting, who is seen as more focused on paperwork, presentations, and corporate strategy than on hands-on operations or frontline work.

Noun

1. a case with a handle; for carrying papers or files or books