scribble down

USAGE SUMMARY

"scribble down" is a valid phrase to use in written English.
You can use it when you need to quickly write something down, usually in an informal or rushed manner. For example, "I'll have to scribble down these notes before the meeting ends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Old trees," I scribble down.

The New York Times - Magazine

Do you scribble down things you overhear?

The Guardian - Books

As a reporter began to scribble down the details, he laughed.

The New York Times

People are rediscovering what it is like to scribble down a "When you were out" slip.

The Washington Post

Most of the travel I do is for my writing; I scribble down sentences as I go.

Independent

I thought this exchange droll enough to scribble down, though reproduced here it doesn't sound all that.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

These I scribbled down as they happened.

The New York Times - Books

I was scribbling down everything he said.

The Guardian

"I scribbled down his name and had trouble tracking him down at his tiny atelier".

The New York Times

Somewhere off camera, Kesha was probably scribbling down a shopping list: Manic Panic, gluteal implants.

The New York Times - Arts

At that point, he goes into an excitable motor state, pacing or scribbling down ideas.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scribble down" when you want to convey the act of writing something quickly and often informally. It's ideal for capturing fleeting thoughts, notes during a lecture, or reminders.

Common error

Avoid using "scribble down" in formal documents or professional communications. Opt for more precise alternatives like "note", "record", or "document" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "scribble down" is as a phrasal verb. It describes an action – the act of writing something quickly and often carelessly. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies it as a valid phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

9%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scribble down" is a common phrasal verb used to describe the act of writing something quickly and often informally. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While grammatically correct, it's best suited for informal situations and should be avoided in formal or academic writing where more precise alternatives like "note" or "record" are more appropriate. The phrase's informality stems from its implication of speed and a lack of emphasis on neatness, making it ideal for capturing fleeting thoughts or jotting down quick reminders.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jot down

This alternative is a more concise and direct synonym.

write quickly

This alternative focuses on the speed of writing.

take notes rapidly

This alternative emphasizes the notetaking aspect and speed.

make a quick note of

This alternative uses a more formal and descriptive tone.

dash off a note

This alternative implies a sense of urgency and informality.

put down in writing

This alternative emphasizes the act of writing something down.

record briefly

This alternative focuses on the act of recording information concisely.

transcribe hastily

This alternative highlights the speed and potential lack of care in transcribing.

mark down swiftly

This alternative emphasizes speed and the act of marking or noting something.

note in haste

This alternative emphasizes the hurried nature of the notation.

FAQs

What does "scribble down" mean?

"Scribble down" means to write something quickly and carelessly, often because you are in a hurry or want to capture a thought before you forget it. It implies a less formal and precise writing style.

What can I say instead of "scribble down"?

You can use alternatives like "jot down", "write quickly", or "make a quick note of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "scribble down" in academic writing?

While "scribble down" isn't incorrect, it is generally too informal for academic writing. Use more formal alternatives such as "note", "record", or "document" in academic contexts.

How does "scribble down" differ from "write down"?

"Write down" is a general term for putting something in writing, while "scribble down" implies doing so quickly and often carelessly. "Write down" is more neutral and doesn't necessarily suggest a lack of care or speed.