Writing
/ˈraɪtɪŋ/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe act of forming letters or symbols on a surface to represent words or ideas.
/ˈraɪtɪŋ/
The act or process of using letters or symbols to form words.
Her handwriting is beautiful.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're sending a letter, a text message, or even just scribbling notes. That's writing! It's how we put our thoughts down on paper, or screens, so others can understand.
👶 For kids: Making marks with a pencil or pen to make words.
More Examples
He spent the morning doing some writing.
The art of writing requires both creativity and skill.
How It's Used
"Students develop their writing skills through practice and feedback."
"The author's writing style is known for its vivid imagery."
A piece of text, document, or any form of written material.
/ˈraɪtɪŋ/
Something that has been written.
His writing was insightful and well-researched.
💡 Simply: When you finish writing, what you've made is 'writing'. It could be a story, an essay, or even just a grocery list. It's anything written down.
👶 For kids: Something that is written down.
More Examples
The essay was well-written.
She published a collection of her writings.
How It's Used
"She is renowned for her evocative writing."
"The company reviewed his written work for the project."
In the process of composing or recording something in written form.
/ˈraɪtɪŋ/
Present participle of write.
I am currently writing a letter.
💡 Simply: It's what you're doing *right now* if you're typing an email or scribbling notes. It is the ongoing act of putting words on paper or on a screen!
👶 For kids: When you are making marks to write words.
More Examples
She's writing a report for her boss.
They were writing a song together.
How It's Used
"He is currently writing a novel."
"She's writing an article about the local community."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
wall writing
graffiti or slogans written on walls in public places
"The city council is trying to remove the wall writing from the buildings."
writing on the wall
clear indications that something bad will happen
"With sales declining, the writing was on the wall for the company."
From Middle English *writinge, writynge*, from Old English *wrīting* (“writing”), equivalent to *write* + *-ing*. Related to Old High German *rīzan* (“to write, scratch”).
The use of 'writing' dates back to Old English, initially referring to the act of making marks or signs.
Memory tip
Think of a pen making marks on paper, forming words.
Word Origin
"to scratch, to inscribe"