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Glite Dictionary
tickler file

tickler file

8.2
A set of folders or notes that remind you when to do tasks
  • noun
  • /ˈtɪk.lər faɪl/
  • US
translation icon : archivo de recordatorios
  • I keep a tickler file on my desk to help me organize reminders for upcoming tasks.

Examples

  • She uses a tickler file to remember important deadlines and appointments.

  • So what are dig in a little bit on this tickler file that you review every six months?

  • Every month, he checks his tickler file to prepare for the meetings and deadlines ahead.

Synonyms

tickler
vstickler file
  • Jargon
4 7.9

A note, file, or system that reminds you about tasks later

is an organized set of reminders arranged by date to prompt action

How Effective

tickler file
  • US
8.2
tickler
  • Jargon
4 7.9
planner
39 1.3
note
∞ 1.0
to-do
  • Jargon
63 3.6

Surface Forms

tickler file singular
tickler files plural

Morphology

tickler + file

Given the constituents, the meaning is directly compositional: 'tickler' (a reminder device/system) + 'file' (a collection of documents) yields a collection used for reminders. Although 'tickler' is relatively uncommon in everyday speech, if a learner knows both words the overall sense is predictable and transparent.

Etymology

The noun tickler file may come from the idea of a small note that 'tickles' your memory. People called these notes ticklers and kept them in a file ordered by date so the system would 'remind' them when to act.