a written constitution

USAGE SUMMARY

"a written constitution" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it to refer to a comprehensive set of laws or principles that govern a society, such as "The United States has a written constitution that outlines the rights of its citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Isn't it great to be a constitutional monarch in a country without a written constitution?

The Guardian

Even places that sustained polities for centuries without a written constitution have begun to succumb to the lure of writtenness.

Cornell University

Arguably, Britain now needs a written constitution.

The Economist

Time for a written constitution.

The Guardian

Iraq has a written constitution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Greens Favour a written constitution with a Bill of Rights.

Independent

For decades, we have muddled through without a written constitution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most vitally, some called for a written constitution.

The Guardian - Opinion

The need, instead, is for a written constitution.

The Guardian - Opinion

The UK does not have a written constitution.

The Guardian

Lexington writes of a clearly etched polity with a written constitution, Bagehot an unwritten one.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a country's fundamental legal and political principles, use "a written constitution" to emphasize that these principles are formally documented and codified.

Common error

Avoid using "a written constitution" when referring to countries that operate based on conventions, traditions, and judicial precedents rather than a single codified document. Instead, acknowledge the existence of "an unwritten constitution", if one exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a written constitution" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific type of constitution that is formally documented. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a common and accepted way to describe such documents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a written constitution" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase to refer to a formally documented constitution. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread acceptance. It commonly appears in news, encyclopedias, and academic discussions, signaling a neutral register. While the phrase is generally well-understood, it's important to differentiate it from the concept of an unwritten constitution. Best practice involves emphasizing the formal and codified nature of the constitution when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a codified constitution

Emphasizes the formal and systematic arrangement of laws.

a formal constitution

Highlights the official and structured nature of the constitution.

a documented legal framework

Focuses on the written aspect and its function as a basis for law.

a charter of rights

Highlights the rights and freedoms guaranteed within the written document.

a constitutional document

A broader term emphasizing the document's role in defining governance.

a set of fundamental laws

Focuses on the basic legal principles established in writing.

a basic law

Highlights the foundation nature and basic aspect.

a framework for governance

Emphasizes the constitution's role in structuring the government.

an established legal code

Focuses on legal aspect and an arrangement of laws and rules.

a constitutional framework

Emphasizes the structure and system established by the constitution.

FAQs

How is "a written constitution" different from an unwritten one?

While "a written constitution" is a single, codified document outlining a country's fundamental laws and principles, an unwritten constitution relies on various sources like statutes, judicial precedents, and conventions.

What are some key features typically included in "a written constitution"?

Key features often include a declaration of rights, the structure of government, the powers of different branches, and procedures for amending the constitution.

Why might a country choose to adopt "a written constitution"?

Adopting "a written constitution" can provide clarity, stability, and protection of rights by formally defining the limits of governmental power and ensuring legal certainty.

Is it always better to have "a written constitution" than an unwritten one?

Not necessarily. While "a written constitution" offers clarity and certainty, an unwritten constitution can be more flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. The best choice depends on a country's specific history, culture, and political context.