#english **jot vs write**
**jot** and **write** differ in scope, duration, and intent.
### 1. Scope and length
* **write**: neutral, general verb. Can refer to anything from a single word to a 500-page book.
* write a sentence
* write an email
* write a novel
* **jot**: implies something **short and informal**, usually just a few words.
* jot a note
* jot down a number
You do not “jot a novel.”
---
### 2. Speed and intention
* **write**: does not imply speed. Could be careful, structured, revised.
* **jot**: implies **quick, minimal effort**, often temporary.
“Jot it down” suggests capturing something before you forget it.
---
### 3. Formality and tone
* **write** is neutral and works in all registers.
* **jot** is informal and usually conversational.
You can say:
* “Please write a report.”
But not:
* “Please jot a report.”
---
### 4. Structure
“Jot” almost always appears with **down**:
* jot down an idea
* jot down a reminder
Without *down*, it sounds less natural in modern usage.
---
In short:
* **write** = produce written text (any length, any context)
* **jot** = quickly write something short for temporary reference
**jot** and **write** differ in scope, duration, and intent.
### 1. Scope and length
* **write**: neutral, general verb. Can refer to anything from a single word to a 500-page book.
* write a sentence
* write an email
* write a novel
* **jot**: implies something **short and informal**, usually just a few words.
* jot a note
* jot down a number
You do not “jot a novel.”
---
### 2. Speed and intention
* **write**: does not imply speed. Could be careful, structured, revised.
* **jot**: implies **quick, minimal effort**, often temporary.
“Jot it down” suggests capturing something before you forget it.
---
### 3. Formality and tone
* **write** is neutral and works in all registers.
* **jot** is informal and usually conversational.
You can say:
* “Please write a report.”
But not:
* “Please jot a report.”
---
### 4. Structure
“Jot” almost always appears with **down**:
* jot down an idea
* jot down a reminder
Without *down*, it sounds less natural in modern usage.
---
In short:
* **write** = produce written text (any length, any context)
* **jot** = quickly write something short for temporary reference
