in-tray
/'intrei/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A container, typically placed on a desk or workspace, designed to hold documents, letters, or other materials that have been received and are awaiting attention or processing.
Usage
The word "in-tray" refers specifically to a physical or designated space for incoming, unprocessed work items. It is the opposite of an "out-tray." * Please place the new contracts in my in-tray; I will review them this afternoon. * Her in-tray was overflowing with unread reports and memos. * The manager cleared his in-tray before leaving for the day.
Advanced Usage
- The concept can be used metaphorically to represent a backlog of tasks or responsibilities.
- After my vacation, my email inbox felt like a digital in-tray that would take days to clear.
Variants and Related Words
- Inbox: The digital equivalent for emails and electronic documents.
- Out-tray (noun): A container for documents that have been processed and are ready to be sent out or filed.
- Pending tray: A less common synonym emphasizing items awaiting action.
Synonyms
- Pending file
- Intake basket
Antonyms
- Out-tray
- Outbox
Related Phrases
- To land in someone's in-tray: To become someone's responsibility to handle.
- The complaint will land in the director's in-tray by tomorrow morning.
Noun
- a wood or metal receptacle placed on your desk to hold your incoming material