writing this down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "writing this down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of recording information or notes, often to ensure that something is remembered or documented. Example: "I find it helpful to focus better when I am writing this down during meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Are you writing this down?

The Guardian - Sport

I'm writing this down for future thinking".

The New York Times - Books

You're not writing this down are you?

The New York Times - Arts

"I'm writing this down," Milt said.

The New Yorker

I started writing this down because I had a premonition.

Independent

'You're not writing this down?' she asked, appalled.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Should I write this down?

The New Yorker

We should write this down somewhere.

The New York Times

"Remember to write this down," I told his mother.

The New York Times - Health

I don't remember, I didn't write this down".

The New Yorker

"Write this down," she told a class one day.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "writing this down" when you want to emphasize the act of physically recording information, especially when it's unexpected or significant. For instance, when someone is divulging important information, asking "Are you writing this down?" can highlight its value.

Common error

Avoid using "writing this down" excessively in informal conversations where note-taking is implied. Instead of constantly stating that you're writing something down, simply take notes and continue the conversation naturally to maintain a smooth flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "writing this down" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of recording something in written form. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to capture information, often to emphasize its importance or ensure it's remembered. Examples in Ludwig show it used both literally (taking notes) and figuratively (documenting an experience).

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Lifestyle

5%

Less common in

Sports

4%

Science

3%

Books

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "writing this down" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of recording information, often to emphasize its significance or ensure its retention. Ludwig AI validates its widespread use across diverse contexts, including news media, lifestyle content, and wikis. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives like "jotting this down" or "taking notes" can provide more nuanced options depending on the situation. Ultimately, the phrase serves as a clear and direct way to indicate the act of documenting information for future reference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jotting this down

Implies a quick and informal way of recording information, different from the more general action of writing.

taking notes of this

Focuses on the action of note-taking, suggesting a more structured or formal recording process.

making a note of this

Highlights the act of noting something important, emphasizing the significance of the information.

recording this information

Emphasizes the action of capturing information, which can be in written or other forms.

documenting this

Suggests a formal and thorough recording of information for future reference.

putting this in writing

Highlights the act of formalizing something by writing it down.

committing this to paper

Emphasizes the physical act of writing on paper, making it a permanent record.

transcribing this

Indicates a more formal and detailed writing down of information, often verbatim.

setting this down

A more archaic or literary way of saying writing down, implying carefulness.

getting this in black and white

Indicates documenting formally so there is no ambiguity, usually to avoid future argument.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "writing this down" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you could use phrases like "documenting this", "recording this information", or "making a formal record of this". These alternatives convey a sense of official or professional note-taking.

What's the difference between "writing this down" and "taking notes"?

"Writing this down" generally refers to a specific piece of information being recorded, while "taking notes" is a broader term for recording information during a lecture, meeting, or other event. You might say "I'm writing this down because it's important", but "I'm taking notes during the presentation".

When is it appropriate to ask someone "Are you writing this down?"

It's appropriate to ask "Are you writing this down?" when you're providing information that's crucial, complex, or needs to be remembered accurately. It can also be used to emphasize the importance of what you're saying, particularly if it's something they might otherwise forget.

What are some informal alternatives to "writing this down"?

Informal alternatives include "jotting this down", "making a quick note of this", or simply "noting this". These phrases suggest a less formal and more casual approach to recording information.