Verbs of Manual Action - Verbs for Writing

Here you will learn some English verbs referring to writing such as "draft", "scribble", and "compose".

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Verbs of Manual Action
to write [verb]

to make letters, words, or numbers on a surface, usually on a piece of paper, with a pen or pencil

Ex: They grabbed a marker to write a message on the whiteboard .

to write a literary piece with a lot of consideration

Ex: The author worked diligently to compose a gripping mystery novel that kept readers on the edge of their seats .
to draft [verb]

to write something for the first time that needs corrections for the final presentation

Ex: The students were instructed to draft their research papers and then seek feedback from their peers .

to write information for later use

Ex: The teacher asked the students to take down the homework assignment before leaving the class .

to make a note of something in a hurried and informal style

Ex: She always carries a small notebook to jot down important reminders .

to write something on paper, ensuring it is clear and includes all the necessary details

Ex:

to write hastily or carelessly without giving attention to legibility or form

Ex: In the margin of his notebook , he would often scribble random thoughts and ideas during lectures .

to quickly write something down

Ex: With the deadline approaching , the journalist had to dash off an article without the usual thorough research .

to write something hastily or carelessly in a messy and illegible manner

Ex: During the brainstorming session , ideas were scrawled across the whiteboard , creating a visual representation of the creative process .
to pen [verb]

to write a letter, novel, play, etc.

Ex: Inspired by the picturesque landscape , he felt compelled to pen a poem capturing the beauty of nature .

to create content using a pencil as the writing or drawing instrument

Ex: During the brainstorming session , team members were encouraged to pencil their ideas on individual notecards for easy organization .
to chalk [verb]

to create content using chalk as the writing or drawing instrument

Ex: Children eagerly chalked colorful drawings and hopscotch patterns on the pavement during recess .

to record spoken words, notes, or any information in a written form

Ex: The court reporter diligently transcribed the witness 's testimony during the trial .

to write the words used in a movie, play, etc.

Ex: Before filming began , the screenwriter carefully scripted each scene to ensure a coherent storyline .

to provide a brief description or explanation for an image, video, or piece of content

Ex: The museum curator diligently captioned the artworks , providing historical context for visitors .

to mark or engrave a surface with a design or pattern, typically to create a lasting impression or decoration

Ex: The ancient tablet was inscribed with mysterious symbols that scholars are still trying to decipher .

to add notes that explain or comment on something, such as a text, document, or image

Ex: The editor took the time to annotate the manuscript , offering suggestions for improvement .

to start a written work with a brief statement or introduction, often written by the author or editor, to provide context or explain the purpose

Ex: The editor suggested that the writer preface the collection of short stories with an overview of the thematic elements .
to spell [verb]

to write or say the letters that form a word one by one in the right order

Ex: They practice spelling new words in their English class .
to sign [verb]

to write one's name or mark on a document to indicate acceptance, approval, or endorsement of its contents

Ex: The artist signed the painting in the bottom right corner .

to complete an official form or document by writing information on it

Ex: Make sure to fill out all the sections of the medical history form at your appointment .