what to write

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what to write" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing topics or ideas for writing, such as in a brainstorming session or when seeking advice. Example: "I'm unsure about what to write for my essay." Alternative expressions include "what to say" and "what to express."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What to write about?

The New Yorker

We decided what to write.

The New York Times

But what to write about?

The New York Times

I can't think what to write.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I don't know what to write.

The Guardian

I had no idea what to write.

The New Yorker

Even though he doesn't always know what to write.

The New York Times - Books

Planners start writing only when they know what to write.

The Washington Post

We do not tell our columnists what to write about.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

If you have no idea what to write, usually song lyrics work well!

WikiHow

However, it can be assumed that clinicians know what to write to make a procedure sound "medically justified".

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Incorporate this phrase into indirect questions for a natural flow, such as "I am still deciding what to write for the final report".

Common error

Avoid using "what to write" when you actually mean "<a href="/s/how+to+write" target="_blank" rel="alternative">how to write". The former refers to the subject matter or topic, while the latter refers to the technique, style or physical ability to form words.

Linguistic Context

In linguistic terms, "what to write" is an interrogative infinitive phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it frequently serves as a nominal complement or a direct object in sentences where a character or author is grappling with subject matter. It allows for a concise way to express a noun clause without a full subject-predicate structure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academic

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "what to write" is a versatile and essential phrase for describing the selection of content or subject matter. Ludwig data confirms its high frequency across reputable news outlets like The New Yorker and The New York Times, as well as instructional platforms. While it is simple, its utility lies in its ability to condense complex thoughts about content creation into a short, clear structure. Writers should be careful not to confuse it with "<a href="/s/how+to+write" target="_blank" rel="alternative">how to write", which focuses on the mechanics of writing rather than the ideas behind it. Whether you are facing writer's block or planning a formal report, this phrase is the standard way to address the choice of information to be conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what to say

Shifts the focus from written communication to verbal or general expression.

what to express

Emphasizes the underlying meaning or emotion rather than the act of writing.

topics to cover

More specific to the thematic scope of a document or presentation.

what to put on paper

A more idiomatic or literal variation of the writing process.

which subjects to address

More formal and typically used in professional or academic planning.

what content to produce

Modern business or marketing terminology for content creation.

appropriate subject matter

A highly formal noun phrase used to describe suitable content.

ideas for writing

Focuses on the conceptual stage rather than the immediate action.

what to compose

A more elevated or formal term often used in artistic or musical contexts.

how to phrase it

Focuses on the style and choice of words rather than the topic itself.

FAQs

How do I use "what to write" in a sentence?

The phrase "what to write" typically functions as the object of a verb. For example: "I spent an hour staring at the page, unsure of what to write".

What is the difference between "what to write" and "how to write"?

The difference lies in content versus method. "what to write" refers to the topic, whereas "<a href="/s/how+to+write" target="_blank" rel="alternative">how to write" refers to the style or the technical process of writing.

Can I use "what to say" instead of "what to write"?

Yes, depending on the context. If the communication is speech-based, use "<a href="/s/what+to+say" target="_blank" rel="alternative">what to say". If you are referring to the message itself regardless of the medium, they are often interchangeable.

Is "deciding what to write" a common expression?

Yes, it is very common in both creative and professional contexts. You can also use alternatives like "<a href="/s/choosing+a+topic" target="_blank" rel="alternative">choosing a topic" for more formal clarity.