in writing
Not just spoken
In writing means recorded in written form rather than spoken.
The phrase typically emphasizes documentation or formality: Get the agreement in writing, I need that promise in writing.
What's in writing carries more weight than verbal assurances—it can be referenced, verified, and used as evidence.
Put it in writing is both practical advice and implicit skepticism about oral commitments.
Writing fluid
- pencilGraphite writing instrument
- paperPressed pulp for writing
- penInk-filled writing tool
- handwrittenWritten by hand
calligraphy · inscription · script · longhand · cursive · print · scrawl · penmanship
Exchanged written communication
- professionalCredentialed in one's field
- academicRelating to education or theory
- articulateExpress clearly, or well-spoken
- polishedSmooth, refined, accomplished
eloquent · coherent · concise · precise · grammatical · structured · expository · persuasive
Preserved account or achievement
- archiveStored historical records
- chronicleOrdered historical record
- registerRecord officially; vocal range
- logSectioned tree trunk
journal · minutes · report · memoir · annals · dossier · file · entry
Unversified language
- poetryMetrical literary composition
- novelNew and unusual
- fictionImagined narrative work
- nonfictionLiterature about real events
essay · narrative · screenplay · short story · memoir · biography · drama · verse
Enforceable written agreement
- agreementShared position between parties
- covenantBinding formal pledge
- pledgeBinding promise given
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
promise · oath · vow · guarantee · undertaking · accord · compact · stipulation
ink
Writing fluid
handwritten · calligraphy · inscription · script · longhand · cursive · print · scrawl · penmanship · on paper
correspondence
Exchanged written communication
- professionalCredentialed in one's field
- academicRelating to education or theory
- articulateExpress clearly, or well-spoken
polished · eloquent · coherent · concise · precise · grammatical · structured · expository · persuasive · letter
record
Preserved account or achievement
- archiveStored historical records
- chronicleOrdered historical record
- registerRecord officially; vocal range
log · journal · minutes · report · memoir · annals · dossier · file · entry · catalogue
prose
Unversified language
nonfiction · essay · narrative · screenplay · short story · memoir · biography · drama · verse · author
contract
Enforceable written agreement
commitment · promise · oath · vow · guarantee · undertaking · accord · compact · stipulation · clause
in writingoff the record
Not meant for reporting
informally · unofficially · unrecorded · undocumented · tacitly
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