dossier

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

ˈdɒs.i.eɪ, ˈdɔː.si.eɪ

Definitions

1. A collection of documents or records about a particular person, event, or subject.
2. A file containing detailed information, often confidential, used for official purposes.

Usage Examples

• The intelligence agency compiled a dossier on the suspect.
• The journalist reviewed the dossier before publishing the article.

Etymology

Borrowed from French dossier, meaning 'bundle of papers,' derived from doss (back), referring to the labels placed on the back of files for identification.

Synonyms

• File
• Record
• Report
• Archive
• Portfolio

Antonyms

• Single document
• Unrecorded data

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: ˈdɒs.i.eɪ
• American English: ˈdɔː.si.eɪ
• French: dɔ.sje

Historical Usage

The term 'dossier' originated in the 19th century, primarily in bureaucratic and intelligence circles, where organized records were crucial for documentation.

Cultural Nuances

The word 'dossier' is often associated with intelligence agencies, investigative journalism, and legal cases, signifying thorough documentation.

More Information

A dossier is an essential tool in many professional fields, including law enforcement, diplomacy, and corporate governance. It allows for the structured organization of important information, facilitating decision-making and strategic planning. Over time, the term has been popularized in media and politics, where it often carries connotations of secrecy and importance.