leave word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leave word" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to mean informing someone or leaving a message for someone who is not present. Example: "If you can't reach me, please leave word with my assistant about the meeting time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Many people post their vacation plans on electronic calendars that colleagues can view online, and they leave word about how they can be reached in a pinch.

The New York Times

Failure to leave word of his whereabouts in Utah, ignoring one of the most basic rules of hiking, drew sharp rebukes.

The New York Times - Sports

A Washington colonel was the inadvertent cause of some confusion in the War Department the other day when he dusted out of the office in a rush, pausing only to leave word with his secretary about his plans.

The New Yorker

Before they can leave, word comes that Frank Miller, a desperado whom Kane was responsible for putting behind bars, is on his way back to town to settle the account.

The New York Times

He'd never heard of Red Cross messages, which allow, say, a child and parent who have become separated, to leave word for each other when they don't know where the other person is or even whether he or she is alive.

The New Yorker

By Patricia Maschal, Harold Ross, and Russell Maloney The New Yorker, April 10 , 1943P. 11 A Washington colonel was the inadvertent cause of some confusion in the War Department the other day when he dusted out of the office in a rush, pausing only to leave word with his secretary about his plans.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A man interested in the meanings of words, not one whose interests leave words meaningless".

The New Yorker

We can leave words and works, and if we have some money, we can commission monuments and portraits.

Huffington Post

He leaves word: 'Call us.' So, I don't call".

The New Yorker

Finally, she said she left word with his wife.

The New York Times

She was out, and he left word for her to come over for supper.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning activities like hiking or traveling, always "leave word" with a trusted contact about your itinerary and expected return time. This ensures that someone knows where to look if you encounter unexpected delays or emergencies.

Common error

Avoid using "leave word" when a more precise term like "send an email", "call", or "text" is appropriate. "Leave word" is best used when the method of communication is unspecified or when emphasizing the act of conveying a message in general.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave word" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of informing someone or providing a message. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's commonly used to mean informing someone or leaving a message for someone who is not present.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "leave word" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe providing information or a message, especially when direct communication isn't feasible. Although Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's less common than alternatives like "leave a message". Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, though it appears more frequently in news and media, as shown in Ludwig's examples. When using "leave word", ensure clarity by providing specific details and selecting more specific communication methods when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

send a message

This alternative focuses on the act of conveying a message, regardless of the method.

give notice

This phrase emphasizes the act of informing someone about something, especially a future event.

notify someone

This alternative focus specifically on the action of notification.

get in touch

This implies making contact with someone, often to exchange information or updates.

provide updates

This alternative focuses on giving current information or progress reports.

make contact

This phrase suggests establishing communication with someone.

drop a line

An informal way of saying to send a brief message.

keep informed

This focuses on ensuring someone stays up-to-date with information.

pass along information

This alternative implies relaying information from one person to another.

advise someone

This alternative focus specifically on the action of giving advice.

FAQs

What does "leave word" mean?

"Leave word" means to provide information or a message to someone, especially when you are absent or unavailable. It implies ensuring that someone has the necessary details or instructions.

How can I use "leave word" in a sentence?

You can use "leave word" in sentences like: "Always "leave word" with your family before going on a trip", or "She asked him to "leave word" at the front desk if he left early".

What are some alternatives to "leave word"?

Alternatives to "leave word" include "leave a message", "inform someone", or "get in touch", depending on the context.

Is it better to "leave word" or "leave a message"?

Both "leave word" and "leave a message" are acceptable, but "leave a message" is more common in contemporary usage, particularly when referring to voicemail or answering machines. "Leave word" is slightly more formal and can imply a broader range of communication methods.