circular file
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A humorous or euphemistic term for a wastebasket or trash can: The phrase "circular file" is a slang expression, often used in office or business contexts, to refer to a receptacle for discarded paper and other rubbish. It humorously implies that unwanted documents are filed away by being thrown into the trash, where they metaphorically go in a "circle" to disposal.
Usage
- The term is typically used in informal or humorous speech to soften the act of discarding something, especially paperwork.
- It is often employed when someone wants to dismiss or reject a document, idea, or proposal without being overtly blunt.
Examples
- Noun:
- I'm afraid that outdated report went straight into the circular file. (Meaning: I threw the report in the trash.)
- If the proposal has no merit, just put it in the circular file. (Meaning: Discard the proposal.)
Advanced Usage
- "to consign/commit something to the circular file": A formal-sounding phrase used humorously to mean to throw something away.
- After reading the poorly researched memo, he consigned it to the circular file.
Variants and Related Words
- Wastebasket (n): A more standard term for a small container for trash, especially paper.
- Trash can (n): A general term for a container for rubbish.
- File thirteen (n, slang): Another humorous office slang term with the same meaning as "circular file."
Synonyms
- Wastepaper basket: A container for discarded paper.
- Bin: A general term for a container for waste.
Related Phrases
- Round file (n, slang): A less common variant with the same humorous meaning as "circular file."
Noun
- a container with an open top; for discarded paper and other rubbish