draft a document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "draft a document" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of creating a preliminary version of a written text, such as a report, letter, or contract. Example: "Before the meeting, I need to draft a document outlining our project proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Andreae and Chemnitz prompted a group of Lutheran theologians to draft a document entitled Formula of Concord in 1576 and 1577.

Britannica

After doing so, you will be prepared to draft a document that describes your unique user requirements and functional design of the security system to present to potential security system vendors or suppliers.

Physical Security Guidelines Template

Better surely to recognise that at the outset than to draft a document that will be rejected by the voters when they are asked to approve it if they are lucky enough to get the chance.

The Economist

Ne Win had promised a new constitution, and in September 1971 representatives of the party's central committee, of the country's various ethnic groups, and of other interest groups were appointed to draft a document.

Britannica

But efforts to draft a document stating the terms of China's membership foundered early this year on differences between the United States and China over the degree to which China will be allowed to use subsidies to support its farmers.

The New York Times

After a round of shuttle diplomacy, he will probably draft a document on the province's future status which will then be put to Serb and Albanian leaders for consideration.Until a few months ago, Serb officials were wildly unrealistic in their demands; they are now inching towards reality, although they are still not quite there.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The congress drafted a document covering the six eastern provinces of the empire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the meantime, however, he had drafted a document immensely more radical than anything Congress had considered.

The New York Times

The company is also scrambling to finish drafting a document, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, that will trace the questionable dealings between the company and the Rigases.

The New York Times

Democrats on the House Intelligence Committee have drafted a document they say will counter Republican efforts to discredit the FBI probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign.

The Washington Post

Drafting a document, for example, is coded A103.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When starting a complex project, "draft a document" early to outline key goals and strategies, ensuring everyone is aligned before detailed work begins.

Common error

Avoid treating the initial "draft a document" as the finished product. Recognize it as a starting point for revisions and improvements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draft a document" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of creating an initial version of a written work. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes the process of preparing a preliminary document. This is supported by examples where committees are appointed to "draft a document" for a specific purpose.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "draft a document" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase referring to the creation of an initial version of a written text. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English and suitable for various contexts. The phrase sees frequent use in news, encyclopedias, and science-related content. Alternative phrases such as "prepare a document" or "draw up a document" can be used depending on the level of formality required. When using the phrase, make sure to recognize it as a starting point that requires further revisions rather than treating the draft as a final version.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepare a document

Emphasizes the act of getting a document ready, suitable for formal contexts.

draw up a document

Highlights the careful and detailed creation of a document, often legal or official.

compose a document

Focuses on the act of writing and arranging the content of a document.

write a document

A general term for creating a document through writing.

formulate a document

Suggests a structured and methodical approach to creating a document.

develop a document

Implies a process of gradual creation and refinement of a document.

outline a document

Focuses on creating the initial structure or framework of a document.

put together a document

An informal way of saying to assemble a document.

author a document

Highlights the act of being the writer or creator of a document.

initiate a document

Emphasizes the beginning stage of document creation.

FAQs

What does "draft a document" mean?

The phrase "draft a document" refers to the process of creating an initial or preliminary version of a written piece, such as a report, proposal, or legal agreement. It implies that the document is not yet final and is subject to revision.

What are some alternatives to "draft a document"?

You can use alternatives like "prepare a document", "draw up a document", or "compose a document" depending on the context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to "draft a document" or "write a document"?

Both phrases are correct, but "draft a document" suggests a preliminary version, while "write a document" is more general. If you are creating an initial version subject to changes, "draft a document" is more appropriate. Otherwise, "write a document" works well.

What is the difference between a draft and a final document?

A draft is a preliminary version of a document, intended for review and revision. A final document is the completed, approved version that has undergone all necessary changes and is ready for its intended purpose.