writing it down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "writing it down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of recording information on paper or digitally for future reference. Example: "To remember the important points from the meeting, I suggest writing it down in your notebook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

God knows, writing it down did wonders for me.

The Guardian - Film

Writing it down is a mere accounting adjustment, bosses tend to say.

The Economist

Writing it down and giving it over was the prize inside.

The New York Times

In writing it down, he detached himself from the self who acted out the scene.

The Guardian - Books

The only way I really get it is by writing it down".

The Guardian - Film

As I started writing it down, I started remembering: writing was a process of remembering.

The Guardian - Books

UNION COUNTY COLLEGE "Speaking Up and Writing It Down!," play-writing workshop.

The New York Times

The commander took my name, writing it down in a small green book along with my social security number.

The New York Times

Instead, Wright relaxed into a more comfortable metaphor: "I myself feel funny about writing it down on paper.

The New Yorker

When a linguist tries to describe an unknown language he begins by writing it down using symbols in this way.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Different socks for free people," he says, writing it down on a page for good measure.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "writing it down" when you want to emphasize the act of physically or digitally recording information for memory, clarity, or future reference. For example, "Writing it down helps me organize my thoughts."

Common error

Avoid using "writing it down" as a substitute for clear and concise communication. While recording details is useful, ensure the written content itself is easily understandable. Writing something down doesn't automatically make it clear; clarity in expression is still essential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "writing it down" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action of recording information. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and common. Examples show it used both literally (recording notes) and metaphorically (processing emotions).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

32%

Huffington Post

11%

Less common in

The Guardian - Lifestyle

2%

Science Magazine

2%

TechCrunch

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "writing it down" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of recording information. As Ludwig AI verifies, it is widely applicable across various contexts. The frequency analysis indicates that it is most prevalent in News & Media and Wiki sources, suggesting its versatility in both journalistic and instructional content. Related phrases, such as "jotting it down" and "noting it down", offer similar meanings with subtle differences in formality. Remember to use "writing it down" to emphasize recording for clarity or memory, but avoid using it as a crutch for unclear communication. The examples range from simply writing something down to taking more elaborate notes, so it is important to be clear and concise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jotting it down

Refers to a quick and informal act of writing something.

noting it down

Similar to jotting, but slightly more formal and implies a deliberate recording.

taking notes

Focuses on the action of recording key information during a lecture or meeting.

documenting it

Implies a more formal and thorough record-keeping process.

recording it

A general term for preserving information, can be written or otherwise.

putting it in writing

Emphasizes the formal act of committing something to a written form.

committing it to paper

Highlights the act of physically writing on paper.

making a record of it

Focuses on creating a formal account or history.

scribbling it down

Suggests a hurried or messy form of writing.

transcribing it

Implies converting spoken words or data into written form.

FAQs

Why is "writing it down" helpful?

Writing information down aids memory retention, promotes clarity of thought, and provides a tangible record for future reference. It's a practical way to organize ideas and track progress.

What are some alternatives to "writing it down"?

Alternatives include "jotting it down", "noting it down", "taking notes", or "documenting it" depending on the context.

In what situations is "writing it down" particularly useful?

"Writing it down" is useful when memorizing information, planning projects, tracking expenses, or processing emotions. It provides a structured way to engage with information and gain better insights.

Is "writing it down" better than typing it?

The choice between writing and typing depends on personal preference and the task at hand. Writing can enhance memory through kinesthetic learning, while typing may be faster for generating large amounts of text. Both methods achieve the same goal of recording information.