to text

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to text" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of sending a text message via a mobile device or messaging application. Example: "I prefer to text my friends instead of calling them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

People like to text.

The New Yorker

Stacy likes to text.

The New York Times

Barbers pause to text.

The New York Times

I'm going to text Tim.

The New York Times - Sports

To "text" goes back to 1564.

The New York Times

Nor is spam limited to text.

The New York Times - Tech

But the dancing to text, miraculously, works.

The New York Times - Arts

Louis's always the first person to text.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Speech-to-text applications abound.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

Teddy Roosevelt refers to texting.

The New York Times

The vast majority related to texts.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to text" when you specifically refer to sending a message using SMS or a similar text-based messaging service. For broader digital communication, consider "to message".

Common error

Avoid using "to text" when the communication method is not text-based. For example, don't say "to text via email"; instead, use "to email" or "to message".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to text" functions as an infinitive verb phrase. Ludwig AI shows its usage in indicating the action of sending a text message via a mobile device. It follows a standard infinitive structure, making it grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to text" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe sending a text message. It's considered informal but is prevalent in many contexts, especially news and media. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and suggests more formal alternatives like "to send a text message" for professional settings. While "to text" is widely used, it is important to ensure that the context is suitable for the level of formality and that it accurately describes the method of communication being used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to send a text message

More explicit and formal alternative.

to shoot a text

More informal, colloquial alternative.

to message

Broader term encompassing various digital messaging methods.

to SMS

Refers specifically to Short Message Service.

to transmit text

Technical and formal alternative.

to send a short message

More detailed description of the action.

to communicate via text

Emphasizes the communication aspect.

to use text messaging

Highlights the method of communication.

to write a text

Focuses on the writing aspect of the message.

to contact via text

Stresses the act of making contact.

FAQs

What does "to text" mean?

The phrase "to text" refers to the act of sending someone a text message using a mobile phone or other device. It implies using a text-based messaging service like SMS.

What can I say instead of "to text"?

You can use alternatives like "to message", "to send a text message", or "to SMS" depending on the context.

How to use "to text" in a sentence?

You can use "to text" in a sentence like: "I'm going to text her later" or "It's easier to text than to call".

Is it formal to say "to text"?

The phrase "to text" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, it's better to use "to send a text message" or "to communicate via text".