C1nounformal3K

Manuscript

UK /["/ˈmænjuskrɪpt/"]/US /["/ˈmænjuskrɪpt/"]/

Definition

a copy of a book, piece of music, etc. before it has been printed

In simple words: A written or typed document, especially a book or article, before it's published.

Examples

an **unpublished/original manuscript**
I read her poems in manuscript.
He submitted the manuscript to an editor at Longman.
She was delighted when the manuscript was accepted for publication.
I only have one copy of the manuscript.
The text ran to dozens of pages in manuscript form.
the original autograph manuscript of the poem
medieval illuminated manuscripts
the surviving manuscript of ‘Beowulf’
One contemporary manuscript shows Henry II crowned by the hand of Christ.

Usage notes

Use 'manuscript' when referring to early drafts, especially in academic or literary contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'manuscript' as 'man-you-scribe', a man writing a script.

Collocations

original
autograph
handwritten
copy
write
prepare
type
page
form
submission
in manuscript
ancient
early
medieval
survive
illumination
collection

Synonyms

draft
script
text
paper
document

Antonyms

print
publication

Common mistakes

Confused with 'manuscripting' — referring to the process instead of the document.
Using 'manuscript' for published works.
Misplacing the stress in pronunciation.