The correct spelling of the word "telephone directory" is /ˈtɛlɪfoʊn daɪˈrɛktəri/. The first part, "telephone," is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, and the vowel sound is represented by the symbol /ɛ/. The second part, "directory," has stress on the first syllable, and the second syllable has a schwa sound /ə/. The spelling of the word reflects the pronunciation, with the "ph" and "e" letters representing the /f/ and /ɛ/ sounds, respectively.
A telephone directory, often referred to as a phone book or telephone book, is a comprehensive listing of individuals, organizations, and businesses in a specific geographic area. It serves as a valuable resource for locating contact information such as telephone numbers, addresses, and occasionally additional details like email addresses or websites.
Telephone directories are traditionally published in print form, usually in a compact booklet or bound volume, which is commonly distributed among households or businesses. However, with the increasing popularity of digital technology, many telephone directories have transitioned to an online format accessible through websites or mobile applications.
The organization of a telephone directory typically follows a systematic arrangement, commonly sorted alphabetically by the surnames or names of individuals, and by the names or categories of businesses or organizations. Entries may also be further categorized by location, type of service, or other relevant criteria to facilitate ease of use and efficient searches.
Telephone directories are indispensable for personal and professional purposes, offering a convenient method of finding and connecting with individuals or businesses. They are frequently used to locate a specific individual's contact details, acquire customer support information, or verify and update contact information.
Overall, a telephone directory serves as a crucial information resource, fostering effective communication, and aiding in establishing connections in a specific locality or region.
The word "telephone" originates from the Greek words "tele" meaning "far" and "phone" meaning "sound". It was coined in the early 19th century to refer to a device for transmitting sound over a distance. On the other hand, the word "directory" comes from the Late Latin word "directus", meaning "straight" or "straightforward". Combining the two words, "telephone directory" refers to a straight or straightforward list of telephone numbers and other related information.