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adj B1 Intermediate Very common

written

RIH-tn

Written (adj) means expressed or recorded in writing, as opposed to spoken. Example: “Please submit a written request rather than calling us.”

adj
1
Expressed or recorded in writing, as opposed to spoken.
"Please submit a written request rather than calling us."

How to Use Written

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPut down in writing rather than spoken aloud.

Common pairings
written consent written agreement get it in writing
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Please submit a _____ request rather than calling us.

Related Words

Rhymes for written

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “written” mean?

The word “written” means expressed or recorded in writing, as opposed to spoken. In plain terms, put down in writing rather than spoken aloud.

How do you pronounce “written”?

“Written” is pronounced RIH-tn (/ˈɹɪ.tn̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “written” in a sentence?

Here is “written” used in a sentence: “Please submit a written request rather than calling us.”

What part of speech is “written”?

“Written” is an adjective.

Is “written” a common word?

“Written” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

What is the difference between written and spoken language?

Written language is recorded in text, on paper or a screen, so it lasts and can be read again. Spoken language is produced aloud and vanishes as soon as it is said, unless recorded. Writing tends to be more planned and formal, while speech is quicker, looser and more spontaneous.

What is the difference between 'written' and 'wrote'?

Wrote is the simple past tense: 'She wrote a letter yesterday'. Written is the past participle, used with a helping verb such as have or was: 'She has written a letter', or 'The letter was written'. Using one in place of the other is a very common grammatical slip.

What is an example of something written?

Books, emails, contracts, text messages, road signs and shopping lists are all written, recorded in words rather than spoken aloud. A written agreement carries more weight than a verbal one precisely because it leaves a permanent, checkable record that both sides can return to later.

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