Entry vs. Entries — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on February 23, 2024
Entry refers to a single item recorded in a list or database, while entries are the plural form, indicating multiple such items or records.
Difference Between Entry and Entries
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An entry is a singular term used to describe one instance of data or information recorded in a list, diary, database, or any system of record-keeping. For example, in a journal, each individual record of events or thoughts is an entry. On the other hand, entries refer to the plural form of entry, representing more than one item or record in a collection. This distinction is crucial in contexts where the quantity of data points is relevant, such as in accounting or database management.
When discussing databases or ledgers, an entry signifies a single piece of data, such as a transaction in an accounting system. In contrast, entries encompass all the individual records within the system, highlighting the collective aspect. This difference is essential for understanding the scope of data under discussion, whether it's a singular record or multiple.
In literary or journal contexts, an entry might be a single day's diary notation or a specific article in a blog, emphasizing the individuality of the piece. Entries, in this sense, would refer to all the notations or articles within the diary or blog, showcasing the breadth of content.
The term entry is also used in competitions and events, denoting a single participant or submission. Entries, therefore, would represent all participants or submissions, indicating the scale of participation and competition.
In software and digital applications, an entry might refer to a single input by a user, such as a password entry. Entries would denote all the inputs made, highlighting the interaction volume or data collection over time.
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Comparison Chart
Number
Singular
Plural
Context
Refers to a single record or item
Refers to multiple records or items
Usage
Individual data point or instance
Collective set of data points or instances
Example Context
A single transaction in an accounting ledger
All transactions within an accounting ledger
Implication
Focus on a specific, singular instance
Emphasis on the collective or total count
Compare with Definitions
Entry
A single act of entering data into a system.
The latest entry in the database corrected the previous error.
Entries
Multiple acts of entering data into a system.
The system updates were based on the latest entries.
Entry
One item in a list or record.
Each entry in the journal was meticulously dated and detailed.
Entries
Multiple items in a list or record.
The ledger's entries for the month were all reconciled.
Entry
A submission or participant in a competition.
Her entry into the contest won first prize.
Entries
Acts of going into places.
Entries into the restricted area were closely monitored.
Entry
The act of going into a place.
The entry into the building was restricted after hours.
Entries
Submissions or participants in a competition.
The competition's entries showcased incredible talent.
Entry
A doorway or access point into a building.
The main entry was adorned with flowers for the event.
Entries
Doorways or access points into a building.
The building's entries were designed for easy access.
Entry
A headword along with its related text.
Entries
The inclusion or insertion of an item, as in a record
Made an entry in the ledger.
Entry
A record made in a log, diary or anything similarly organized; (computing) a datum in a database.
What does the entry for 2 August 2005 say?
Entries
The act or an instance of entering.
Entry
The privilege or right of entering.
Entries
An entry word, as in a dictionary; a headword.
Entry
The act of making or entering a record; a setting down in writing the particulars, as of a transaction; as, an entry of a sale; also, that which is entered; an item.
A notary made an entry of this act.
Entries
Plural of entry
Entry
An item inserted in a written record
Entry
A written record of a commercial transaction
Entry
The act of entering;
She made a grand entrance
Common Curiosities
Is an entry always written?
Not necessarily; an entry can also refer to digital or electronic data input.
What does entries mean in accounting?
In accounting, entries refer to all the individual transaction records within an accounting period.
Can entry and entries be used interchangeably?
No, "entry" refers to a singular instance, while "entries" is the plural form, used when referring to multiple instances.
Can an entry be a photo or image?
Yes, in contexts like photo contests or digital databases, an entry can be a photo or image.
How important are accurate entries in financial records?
Accurate entries are crucial in financial records for reliable tracking, reporting, and auditing.
What is the purpose of an entry fee in competitions?
An entry fee in competitions can help cover organizational costs or contribute to the prize pool.
What is an entry in a journal?
An entry in a journal is a single record or notation detailing a specific event, thought, or observation.
How is an entry used in competitions?
In competitions, an entry refers to a single submission or participant.
Are entries in a logbook always chronological?
Yes, entries in a logbook are typically made in chronological order to maintain a clear timeline of events.
How many entries does a diary have?
A diary can have as many entries as there are individual records or notations made in it.
Do all competitions accept multiple entries from one participant?
It depends on the competition's rules; some may allow multiple entries, while others limit participants to one entry.
Can entries in a blog be categorized?
Yes, entries in a blog can be categorized by topics, dates, or any other relevant classification.
Can an entry in a database be edited?
Yes, an entry in a database can typically be edited or updated as needed.
How do entries affect data analysis?
The quality and quantity of entries significantly impact the accuracy and insights derived from data analysis.
Are there limits to how many entries can be made in a database?
Technically, databases can handle vast numbers of entries, but practical limits may be set by storage capacity or performance considerations.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
