get it in writing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get it in writing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of having a written record of an agreement or understanding. Example: "Before we proceed with the deal, I want to make sure we get it in writing to avoid any misunderstandings later."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Get it in writing.

Harvard Business Review

Always get it in writing.

The Washington Post

3. Get it in writing.

The New York Times - Magazine

"God is love, but get it in writing".

The New Yorker

If you have insurance and the procedure is pre-approved, get it in writing.

The New York Times

FIND OUT IF WORK IS GUARANTEED -- If so, get it in writing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Why does getting it in writing matter?

Harvard Business Review

("Getting It in Writing," News and Topics, April 28).

The New York Times

This time, after a colleague complained, Coch got it in writing.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I've got it in writing that they would pay me the money and so we're taking them to court," DeGale explains.

The Guardian - Sport

The car buyer might have insisted on negotiating a price over the phone and getting it in writing via fax, with the promise that his father would sign the contract in person.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When entering into any agreement, especially in business or legal contexts, always "get it in writing" to protect your interests and avoid future disputes.

Common error

Avoid depending solely on verbal agreements; even with trusted parties, memories fade and interpretations vary. "Get it in writing" to ensure clarity and mutual understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get it in writing" functions as an imperative, urging someone to secure a written record of an agreement, promise, or understanding. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and used in written English. Its usage emphasizes the importance of clarity and legal protection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get it in writing" is a common and grammatically correct imperative that stresses the importance of documenting agreements. As Ludwig AI confirms, this advice holds value in various domains, most notably in News & Media, Wiki and Academia. The phrase promotes accountability and protects against future disputes. Whether dealing with landlords, business partners, or colleagues, remembering to "get it in writing" is an effective strategy for ensuring clarity and safeguarding your interests. Alternatives such as "document the agreement" or "put it in black and white" offer similar emphasis on the value of written records.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Document the agreement

Focuses on the action of documenting the agreement, rather than the form.

Put it in black and white

Uses a more idiomatic expression to emphasize clarity and formality in documentation.

Formalize the agreement in writing

Highlights the formal nature of the agreement and the need for written documentation.

Secure a written agreement

Emphasizes obtaining a written agreement as a means of security.

Obtain written confirmation

Focuses on getting a written confirmation as proof of an agreement.

Have it officially recorded

Highlights the official aspect of recording an agreement.

Ensure written documentation

Focuses on ensuring that proper written records are maintained.

Get a signed contract

Specifies the type of written agreement as a signed contract.

Obtain a memorandum of understanding

Highlights the formal nature of the agreement and the need for written documentation.

Formalize the arrangement with a contract

Specifies the process of formalizing an arrangement and documenting it.

FAQs

Why is it important to "get it in writing"?

Getting an agreement in writing ensures clarity, provides a reference point, and offers legal protection. It minimizes misunderstandings and disputes by having a tangible record of the agreed-upon terms.

What are some situations where I should "get it in writing"?

Common situations include contracts, agreements with freelancers, promises from landlords, guarantees from sellers, and any important understanding where you need to ensure both parties are on the same page. When dealing with flexible hours or nontraditional workplaces it's also important to "get it in writing".

What's the difference between a verbal agreement and "getting it in writing"?

A verbal agreement relies on memory and trust, whereas "getting it in writing" provides a documented record. Written agreements are more enforceable and reduce the risk of disagreements over terms.

Are there alternatives to saying "get it in writing"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "document the agreement", "put it in black and white", or "secure a written agreement" depending on the context.