acknowledge in writing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acknowledge in writing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting or confirming that someone has received or understood information formally, typically in a business or legal context. Example: "Please acknowledge in writing that you have received the contract and agree to its terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Last year, the agency added a requirement that all patients acknowledge in writing that they are aware of the possible psychiatric side effects.

The New York Times - Health

Starting last year, the organization placed greater emphasis on the issue in its monthly training sessions where lifeguards must acknowledge in writing that they can be fired for carrying electronic devices.

The New York Times

Borrower's Closing Affidavit: This document requires the borrower to acknowledge in writing some critical pieces of information upon which the lender depended in approving and pricing the loan.

Huffington Post

"Those rates will be in front of students as they are making decisions about whether to enroll and they will have to acknowledge in writing that they have understood that," said Undersecretary of Education Ted Mitchell.

Huffington Post

Federal regulators also questioned the qualifications of the physician whom Dr. Lehrner and his partners had assigned to help screen transplant patients, leading the hospital to acknowledge in writing that he "was not formally trained in transplantation".

The New York Times

Ms. Rosenberg and Ms. Shephard had to acknowledge in writing to the Defense Department that they understood that they had violated military rules by disclosing the identity of an Army interrogator, even though his name was already publicly known.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Every gift should be acknowledged in writing within three months of its receipt.

The New York Times

It was nice to see "A Separation" acknowledged in writing though.

The New York Times

He acknowledged in writing the contribution clerks made to his opinions.

The New York Times

"Upon her resignation, [Morales] acknowledged in writing that she had no pending claims against the company and signed a severance agreement which included a full release of claims and an agreement to submit any future claims to confidential binding arbitration," the statement said.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We applaud the President for acknowledging in writing the severity of climate change.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting formal confirmation, use "acknowledge in writing" to ensure there's a documented record of receipt or agreement. This is especially important in legal, business, or academic contexts where clarity and proof are essential.

Common error

While "acknowledge in writing" is suitable for formal situations, avoid using it in everyday informal conversations. Alternatives like "confirm" or "let me know you received it" are more appropriate in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acknowledge in writing" functions as a directive or request, indicating a need for formal confirmation of receipt or understanding. Ludwig provides examples of its use in contexts such as legal agreements or policy updates, where documentation is essential.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acknowledge in writing" is a phrase used to request formal confirmation, particularly in legal, business, and academic settings. Ludwig's analysis and examples show its importance in creating a clear and verifiable record. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's crucial to avoid using it in informal conversations, opting for simpler alternatives like "confirm". Remember that "acknowledge in writing" emphasizes the need for documented evidence of receipt or agreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide written confirmation

Stresses the act of offering or supplying written proof.

confirm via written communication

Emphasizes the method of confirmation is through a written message.

attest in a written statement

Highlights the act of formally declaring something as true in writing.

certify by written declaration

Focuses on providing official assurance through a written document.

affirm in a signed document

Emphasizes the act of confirming something through a signed paper.

document acknowledgement

Shortened phrase focusing on the documentation aspect of acknowledgement.

submit written verification

Highlights the action of handing in written proof for verification.

register formal consent in writing

Specifies the act of formally recording agreement through writing.

express agreement through written consent

Highlights the act of showing approval by means of a written agreement.

indicate understanding in written form

Focuses on expressing comprehension using written means.

FAQs

How do I use "acknowledge in writing" in a sentence?

You can use "acknowledge in writing" when you need a formal confirmation. For example, "Please "acknowledge in writing" that you have read and understood the terms and conditions".

What is a less formal alternative to "acknowledge in writing"?

In less formal contexts, you can use phrases like "confirm receipt", "let me know you got this", or simply "confirm".

What's the difference between "acknowledge" and ""acknowledge in writing""?

"Acknowledge" means to recognize or admit something, while ""acknowledge in writing"" specifies that this recognition or admission must be documented. The latter provides a record.

When is it appropriate to use ""acknowledge in writing""?

It's appropriate to use ""acknowledge in writing"" in professional or legal settings, such as contracts, policy updates, or formal agreements, where a written record of acknowledgement is necessary for accountability and clarity.