Jot down

USAGE SUMMARY

"jot down" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to refer to quickly writing something down, often in a casual context. Example: "Please jot down your thoughts during the meeting." Alternative expressions include "write down" and "note down."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jot down in a notebook.

WikiHow

Jot down notes as you get them.

WikiHow

men jot down pithy phrases.

The New Yorker

So what did he jot down?

Independent

I started to jot down their names.

The Guardian

I jot down names that appeal to me.

The New York Times

We were instructed to jot down an undeveloped answer.

The New York Times

Don't be afraid to jot down details.

WikiHow

Time: Some writers jot down thoughts just before they sleep.

WikiHow

Get a clipboard or a notebook to jot down notes.

WikiHow

Use music staff paper to jot down some sample arrangements.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "jot down" when you want to emphasize the speed and informality of writing something. It's ideal for capturing fleeting thoughts or quick reminders.

Common error

Avoid using "jot down" in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more formal alternatives like "record", "document", or "note" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "jot down" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically a transitive verb when followed by an object. It directs the action of writing something briefly and quickly. Ludwig indicates its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

53%

News & Media

34%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Jot down" is a common phrasal verb meaning to write something quickly. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in informal contexts like WikiHow. While suitable for capturing quick notes or reminders, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives such as "note" or "record" in academic or professional writing. The phrase functions to record information efficiently and is frequently found in Wiki and News & Media sources. Remember to reserve "jot down" for situations where speed and informality are appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Take notes

A more general term for writing down information, possibly less hurried.

Make a quick note

Emphasizes the speed and informality of the notation.

Note briefly

Highlights the brevity of the note-taking.

Write quickly

Emphasizes the speed of writing without explicitly mentioning notes.

Scribble down

Suggests a hurried and somewhat messy form of writing.

Quickly write

Focuses on the action of writing in a rapid manner.

Record briefly

Suggests a written record, with emphasis on conciseness.

Dash off a note

Implies a quick and casual writing style.

Put in writing

General alternative, less focused on the speed of the action itself.

Commit to paper

Highlights the act of transferring thoughts to written form, focusing on preservation.

FAQs

What does "jot down" mean?

The phrase "jot down" means to write something quickly and informally, often as a reminder or to capture a fleeting thought.

How can I use "jot down" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "I need to "take notes" during the meeting" or "Write quickly his number before I forget it."

What are some alternatives to "jot down"?

Alternatives include "take notes", "write briefly", "scribble down", or "make a quick note", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "jot down" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "jot down" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use alternatives like "record", "document", or simply "note".