write down

write something on paper so you can remember it

A2

What does "write sth down" mean?

To write something down means to record it on paper so you don't forget it. You might write down a phone number someone gives you, notes from a class, or instructions for a recipe. The idea is quick, practical recording — not producing a long or polished piece of writing. It's one of the most common phrasal verbs in everyday English, and you'll hear it constantly in classrooms, at work, and in daily conversation. Because the meaning is so close to the words themselves (write + down onto paper), it's easy to understand even for beginners.

Examples

How to use it

write down + object

The most common structure, used when the object is a longer phrase or clause.

Please write down your name and student number at the top of the page.

write + object + down

Also natural with short noun objects — both word orders are correct.

I wrote the address down before I left the office.

write + pronoun + down

When the object is a pronoun, it must go between 'write' and 'down' — never after 'down'.

That's a great idea — write it down before you forget!

write down + object + so + clause

Often used with a 'so' clause to explain why you are recording something.

Write down the Wi-Fi password so you don't have to ask again.

be written down

The passive form is natural in instructions or official situations where the information matters more than who recorded it.

All complaints must be written down and sent to the manager.

Common Collocations

phone numberaddressnotesinstructionsideaspassword

Common Mistakes

Pronoun placement

When you use a pronoun like 'it' or 'them', it must go between 'write' and 'down'. Putting it after 'down' is incorrect.

✗ Can you write down it for me?
✓ Can you write it down for me?
Confusing 'write down' with 'write up'

'Write down' means to quickly record something (a number, some notes, an idea). 'Write up' means to produce a complete, organized document from rough notes — a report, for example. They are not interchangeable.

✗ I need to write down my notes into a full report by Friday.
✓ I need to write up my notes into a full report by Friday.

Usage

Neutral and extremely common in everyday speech, classrooms, and workplaces. In formal writing, 'record' or 'document' may sound more professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can 'write down' be used in formal English?

'Write down' is neutral and works in most situations, including classrooms and workplaces. However, in very formal writing — like official reports or legal documents — 'record' or 'document' may sound more professional. In conversation and everyday writing, 'write down' is perfectly fine.

Does 'write down' only work with physical paper?

Traditionally, 'write down' refers to writing on paper, but people also use it when recording information in a notebook app, a phone, or a digital document. The focus is on capturing information quickly so you don't forget it, regardless of the surface.

What kinds of things can I 'write down'?

You can write down almost any piece of practical information — a phone number, an address, instructions, a password, ideas, directions, or a shopping list. The key is that you're recording something short and specific, not composing a long piece of writing like an essay or a story.

Is 'write down' the same as 'note down' or 'jot down'?

'Note down' and 'jot down' have very similar meanings, but 'write down' is the most common and most general of the three. 'Jot down' suggests you're writing very quickly and briefly, while 'write down' doesn't say anything about speed. For everyday use, 'write down' is the safest and most natural choice.

Related Phrasal Verbs

note sth down
take sth down

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