write a ticket

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "write a ticket" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as law enforcement, customer service, or technical support to refer to the act of creating a formal record of an issue or violation. Example: "The officer had to write a ticket for the parked car that was blocking the driveway."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Occasionally we'll write a ticket for somebody who's letting their dog chase pigeons.

The New York Times

To an extent, this is true: attendants enjoy much less latitude in deciding whether to write a ticket.

The Economist

"At no time did the officers begin to write a ticket," said Ms. Ravitz, adding that the chancellor remained calm and polite during the episode.

The New York Times

Brian T. Encinia, a state trooper, approaches her car, takes her information and returns to his vehicle to write a ticket.

The New York Times

To write a ticket, a traffic officer punches information into a hand-held keyboard the size of an oversized pocket calculator.

The New York Times

Imagine that you are a police officer and you need to write a ticket to somebody … There are so many rules [for vendors].

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

A San Antonio officer writing a ticket was ambushed and killed not long after.

The Washington Post

He ended up handcuffed to the wall of a holding cell while an officer wrote a ticket for trespassing.

The New York Times

A policeman writes a ticket, and you can either pay the fine or tell it to the judge.

The New York Times

The officer wrote a ticket before she could shift to the driver's side.

The New York Times

The car didn't belong to Mr. Stein, who was opening up his store a week ago Thursday when he spotted a police officer writing a ticket.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to historical contexts or manual processes, "write a ticket" might be more appropriate to emphasize the physical act of writing.

Common error

Avoid using "write a ticket" when the context implies simply providing an entry pass or authorization. For general entry, phrases like "get a ticket" or "obtain a ticket" are more suitable. Ensure that "write a ticket" is used when indicating a formal issuing of a fine or penalty for a violation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "write a ticket" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of creating and issuing a formal notice of violation. Ludwig examples show it used in law enforcement and regulatory contexts. Ludwig AI states the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "write a ticket" is a common and grammatically sound expression that describes the act of issuing a formal citation, typically for a violation of rules or laws. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in numerous contexts, particularly in news and media, although slightly leaning to neutral/informal. When aiming for a more official tone, alternatives like "issue a ticket" may be preferable. While "write a ticket" effectively conveys the action of creating and delivering a ticket, it's important to consider the specific context and desired level of formality when choosing the most suitable wording.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issue a ticket

Focuses on the act of formally providing a ticket, often in an official capacity.

give a ticket

Emphasizes the act of handing over a ticket as a form of penalty or authorization.

hand out a ticket

Implies a more casual or widespread distribution of tickets.

prepare a citation

Replaces 'ticket' with 'citation', highlighting the formal documentation of an offense.

draw up a ticket

Focuses on the creation and completion of the ticket document.

fill out a ticket

Highlights the process of completing the necessary information on a ticket.

record a violation

Shifts the focus to documenting the infraction rather than the physical ticket.

levy a fine

Emphasizes the monetary penalty associated with the ticket.

impose a penalty

Broadens the concept to include any form of punishment, not just a ticket.

assess a charge

Focuses on the financial obligation resulting from the offense.

FAQs

What is another way to say "write a ticket"?

Alternatives include "issue a ticket", "give a ticket", or "hand out a ticket", depending on the context.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "write a ticket"?

Use "write a ticket" when referring to the formal act of issuing a citation for a violation, such as a traffic offense or parking violation. It implies the creation of an official record.

Is "write a ticket" formal or informal?

While generally acceptable, "write a ticket" leans toward a neutral to slightly informal tone. For very formal contexts, consider using "issue a citation".

What is the difference between "write a ticket" and "issue a ticket"?

While similar, "issue a ticket" often implies a more official or administrative process, while "write a ticket" can refer to the physical act of filling out the ticket form. The distinction is subtle and often context-dependent.