C1noun2K

Portfolio

UK /["/pɔːtˈfəʊliəʊ/"]/US /["/pɔːrtˈfəʊliəʊ/"]/

Definition

a thin flat case used for carrying documents, drawings, etc.

In simple words: A collection of works or documents that show someone's skills or achievements.

Examples

  • I left my portfolio on the train.
  • She spent most of last year getting her portfolio together.
  • a(n) **investment/share portfolio**
  • a portfolio manager
  • the defence portfolio
  • a ministerial portfolio
  • She resigned her portfolio.
  • He was asked to join as a **minister without portfolio** *(= one without responsibility for a particular government department)*.
  • a portfolio of wines

Usage notes

Used mainly in professional and academic contexts. It is appropriate when discussing one's skills or projects but can feel overly formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

portfolio + of + works/documents

Memory hint

Think of 'port' as a place where ships store things; a 'portfolio' stores your work.

Collocations

  • create a portfolio
  • design a portfolio
  • presentation portfolio
  • portfolio review
  • digital portfolio

Synonyms

  • collection
  • case
  • file
  • dossier
  • presentation

Antonyms

  • disorganization
  • disorder
  • dismantling

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'portefeuille', which is a French word.
  • Using 'portfolio' in plural form incorrectly (e.g., 'portfolios' without context).
  • Misunderstanding it as only financial documents; it can be creative works too.