as drafted

USAGE SUMMARY

"as drafted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a document that has been written and put together, suggesting that it is now in a completed form. For example: "The contract has been drafted and is ready to be signed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The bill as drafted ends bailouts.

The New York Times

The point is the legislation as drafted is ambiguous.

The Guardian

As drafted, the rule has an interesting clause.

The New York Times

But the treaty as drafted goes very far to meet it.

The New York Times

As drafted, the regulations would apply to existing as well as new, carpeting.

The New York Times

Many others have expressed their objection to the clause as drafted.

The Guardian

For example, I agree that the Kyoto protocol on greenhouse gases, as drafted, is incomplete.

The New York Times

While the originalist question — what is the meaning of the Constitution as drafted and ratified?

The New York Times

As drafted it would force any outlets broadcasting via the internet to be licensed.

The New York Times

As drafted, the message called on the party to uphold the freedoms guaranteed by China's constitution.

The Economist

To review new scientific evidence to update the Italian guidelines for managing fever in children as drafted by the panel of the Italian Pediatric Society.

The Journal of Pediatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as drafted" to refer to the state of a document, proposal, or legislation at a particular point in its development. This is useful when discussing amendments, revisions, or potential impacts based on the current wording.

Common error

Avoid using "as drafted" when referring to the final, enacted version of a document. This phrase indicates the document is still subject to change. Once finalized, use terms like "as enacted" or "as implemented".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as drafted" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies the condition or state of something, typically a document or plan, at the time of drafting. Ludwig examples show it often introduces a description of the document's contents or potential implications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as drafted" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to specify that something is being referred to in its preliminary, unrevised form. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English, typically appearing in neutral to formal registers within news media, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the current status of the document or plan under discussion, and be mindful of its temporal aspect – it indicates that revisions are still possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in its current form

Focuses on the present state of something, emphasizing its existing condition without necessarily referring to the drafting process.

as it stands

Highlights the current status or condition, indicating a moment in time without specific regard to the origin or evolution of that state.

in the present version

Emphasizes the version of a document that is available at the moment.

in its existing state

Focuses on the current condition or form of something, highlighting its present status.

as it is currently written

Specifically refers to the written content and its present composition, pinpointing the act of writing.

in the drafted version

Shifts the focus to a specific version.

in the initial design

Highlights the early conceptual phase of a project.

according to the current draft

Emphasizes adherence to the existing documentation, framing it as a reference point.

in preliminary form

Refers to something that is not fully finalized.

in its planned layout

Highlights the intended organization or structure, typically before implementation.

FAQs

How can I use "as drafted" in a sentence?

"As drafted" is used to describe a document or plan in its current, unrevised state. For example, "As drafted, the legislation includes a clause that may be controversial".

What does "as drafted" imply about a document?

It suggests the document is not yet final and is subject to potential changes or amendments. It emphasizes the version currently under consideration.

Which is more appropriate, "as drafted" or "as finalized"?

Use "as drafted" when discussing a document that is still in progress and subject to alterations. Use "as finalized" to refer to the completed and approved version.

What is a good alternative to "as drafted"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "in its current form", "in the present version", or "as it stands" to convey a similar meaning.