Trove vs. Treasure Trove: Using Idioms Correctly

The Question

Can you say “a trove of information” or must it be “a treasure trove of information”?

The Answer

Both are now acceptable, but “treasure trove” is the traditional and more common form.

The History

“Treasure trove” comes from the Anglo-French tresor trové, meaning “found treasure.” Originally, it was a legal term for valuable items found hidden with no known owner.

Over time, “trove” separated from “treasure” and began appearing on its own:

• “a trove of documents” ✓
• “a data trove” ✓

Traditional Usage: Treasure Trove

The full phrase is still preferred in formal writing:

• “The attic was a treasure trove of old photographs.” ✓
• “The archive is a treasure trove for historians.” ✓
• “She discovered a treasure trove of recipes.” ✓

Modern Usage: Trove Alone

Using “trove” by itself has become widely accepted:

• “The website is a trove of useful information.” ✓
• “Investigators found a trove of evidence.” ✓

Style Recommendation

• Formal writing → stick with “treasure trove”
• Casual writing → “trove” alone is fine
• Headlines/titles → “trove” saves space

What to Avoid

Don’t use “trove” with other words that create redundancy:

❌ “A valuable trove” (trove already implies value) ❌ “A rich trove” (same issue) ✓ “A treasure trove” or just “a trove”

Remember

“Treasure trove” = traditional, always correct “Trove” alone = modern, widely accepted