Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Computing) A collection of data or information stored under a single name on a computer storage device: A "computer file" is a digital container that holds information, such as text, images, or program instructions, which can be retrieved, processed, and saved by a computer system.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Please save the document as a new computer file.
  • The software can open various types of computer files, including PDFs and JPEGs.
  • I need to organize my computer files into different folders.

Advanced Usage

• "To create a computer file": To generate a new, named collection of data on a storage medium.

  • The first step is to create a computer file for your project notes.

• "File format": The specific structure and encoding of a computer file, often indicated by its extension (e.g., .txt, .mp3).

  • The .DOCX file format is commonly used for word processing documents.

Variants and Related Words

• File (n): A more general term for a collection of data, which can be digital (a computer file) or physical (a paper file in a cabinet).

  • I keep both a digital file and a paper file for important contracts.

• File system (n): The method and data structure an operating system uses to manage computer files on a storage device.

  • Different operating systems use different file systems.

Synonyms

• Digital file: Emphasizes the electronic, non-physical nature of the data.
• Data file: Highlights that the file contains data, often for processing by software.

Related Phrases

• To save a file: To write data from a computer's memory to a more permanent storage location as a computer file.

  • Remember to save the file before closing the program.

• To delete a file: To remove a computer file from the storage device.

  • I accidentally deleted an important computer file.

Related Idioms

• "It's not in the file": An expression meaning the expected information or record cannot be found. In computing, this can be literal.
  • I searched everywhere, but the report you need just isn't in the computer file.

Noun

1. (computer science) a file maintained in computer-readable form