A1verb1K

Write

UK /["/raɪt/","/raɪts/","/rəʊt/","/ˈrɪtn/","/ˈraɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/raɪt/","/raɪts/","/rəʊt/","/ˈrɪtn/","/ˈraɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make letters or numbers on a surface, especially using a pen or a pencil

In simple words: To use letters and words on paper or a screen.

Examples

  • I like to write stories about my adventures.
  • Can you write your name on the paper?
  • Please write down your phone number.
  • He had to write an essay for his class.
  • The teacher asked us to write something nice.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Suitable for formal contexts (like essays) and informal settings (like text messages). Avoid in contexts where the meaning is more about typing or printing rather than creating content.

Grammar pattern

write + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'rite' — think of a rite of passage that includes writing something important.

Collocations

  • clearly
  • neatly
  • busily
  • learn to
  • teach somebody to
  • be able to
  • in
  • on
  • with
  • beautifully
  • eloquently
  • well
  • commission somebody to
  • inspire somebody to
  • prompt somebody to
  • about
  • for
  • from
  • beautifully
  • eloquently
  • well
  • commission somebody to
  • inspire somebody to
  • prompt somebody to
  • about
  • for
  • from
  • beautifully
  • eloquently
  • well
  • commission somebody to
  • inspire somebody to
  • prompt somebody to
  • about
  • for
  • from

Synonyms

  • inscribe
  • scribble
  • compose
  • record
  • note

Antonyms

  • erase
  • delete

Common mistakes

  • Confuse with 'right' when speaking quickly.
  • Use 'write' instead of 'writing' in continuous tenses.
  • Forget to use 'to' when saying 'write to someone'.