A2noun1K

Diary

UK /["/ˈdaɪəri/"]/US /["/ˈdaɪəri/"]/

Definition

a book in which you can write down the experiences you have each day, your private thoughts, etc.

In simple words: A book where you write your thoughts and daily activities.

Examples

  • I write in my diary every night before I go to bed.
  • Her diary is filled with thoughts and dreams.
  • He decided to keep a diary to document his travels.
  • The diary was discovered years later, revealing hidden secrets.
  • She mentioned in her diary that she was feeling lonely.
  • His diary included sketches and notes about his experiences.
  • In her diary, she wrote about the fun day she had at the park.
  • Keeping a diary can help you express your emotions.

Usage notes

A diary is often used for personal reflection or to document daily experiences. It is usually private, so it may not be appropriate to share its contents. In more formal contexts, a 'journal' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'daily' log of your thoughts, like a secret 'diary.'

Collocations

  • detailed
  • daily
  • personal
  • keep
  • note something in
  • record something in
  • entry
  • in a/​your diary
  • an entry in a diary
  • appointments
  • bookings
  • engagement
  • have something in
  • put something in
  • write something in
  • in a/​your diary

Synonyms

  • journal
  • notebook
  • logbook
  • daybook

Antonyms

  • public
  • open

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'diary' with 'agenda'—diaries are for personal thoughts, while agendas are for scheduling.
  • Using 'diary' to describe a public record—diaries are personal and private.