C1 Expression Neutral 9 min read

write in

To add a candidate's name to a ballot during an election; or to send a letter to an organization.

In 15 Seconds

  • Officially suggest or nominate someone/something.
  • Common in elections and award nominations.
  • Can be formal or informal depending on context.
  • Active suggestion, not just a passive thought.

Meaning

This phrase is all about making a formal request or suggestion, especially when you want someone to be officially considered for something. Think of it as putting a name forward, either for a political position or as a suggestion for a prize. It carries a sense of official action and sometimes a bit of hopeful anticipation.

Key Examples

3 of 12
1

Texting a friend about an election

Ugh, I don't like any of the main candidates, so I'm planning to `write in` my neighbor.

I don't like any of the main candidates, so I'm planning to `write in` my neighbor.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
2

Filling out an award nomination form

Please `write in` the nominee's achievements in the space provided below.

Please `write in` the nominee's achievements in the space provided below.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
3

Instagram caption for a contest

Want to win free tickets? 🎟️ `Write in` your dream vacation spot in the comments below! Winner announced Friday! #DreamVacation #Contest

Want to win free tickets? 🎟️ `Write in` your dream vacation spot in the comments below! Winner announced Friday! #DreamVacation #Contest

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

The concept of `write in` votes emerged with the development of formal voting systems. It allows citizens to express preferences beyond the officially nominated candidates. This practice reflects a democratic value of voter agency and the ability to influence outcomes even with limited pre-selected choices. It's a way for the electorate to directly participate and signal dissatisfaction or support for overlooked individuals.

🎯

Think 'Official Input'

Whenever you see or use `write in`, think of it as an *official* way to put a name or idea forward. It's not just a passing thought; it's a formal suggestion or nomination.

⚠️

Avoid Casual Blunders!

Don't say 'Let's `write in` pizza.' It sounds weird! Use `suggest`, `order`, or `choose` for casual food decisions. Stick to formal nominations for `write in` to avoid sounding awkward.

In 15 Seconds

  • Officially suggest or nominate someone/something.
  • Common in elections and award nominations.
  • Can be formal or informal depending on context.
  • Active suggestion, not just a passive thought.

What It Means

Write in is a super useful phrase. It means to officially suggest or nominate someone or something. This usually happens in a formal context. You might see it during elections. Voters can write in a candidate not on the ballot. It's like saying, "Hey, consider this person!" It also applies to suggestions. You can write in a suggestion for an award. Or even a name for a company contest. It's about actively putting something forward for consideration. It’s not just a casual thought; it’s an action.

How To Use It

Use write in when you want to nominate someone or something officially. For elections, you'd literally write a name on the ballot. For awards or contests, you might fill out a form. You can also use it in a more general sense. "We're accepting suggestions for the new park name." You could write in your idea. It's a proactive verb. It signals you're taking a step to influence a decision. Think about suggesting a colleague for an employee award. You'd write in their name. Or perhaps you want to suggest a song for a playlist. You'd write in the song title. It's all about direct input.

Formality & Register

The formality of write in really depends on the situation. When talking about elections, it's quite formal. Ballots are official documents, right? So, write in carries weight there. For awards or contests, it's also fairly formal. You're usually filling out an official nomination form. However, it can be used more casually. Imagine a group chat deciding on a movie. Someone might say, "Let's write in 'The Matrix' for movie night." This is much more relaxed. It's still a suggestion, but less official. The vibe shifts from serious to playful. It’s all about context, like knowing when to use emojis!

Real-Life Examples

Elections are a prime spot for write in. Some people don't like the official candidates. They write in their own choice. It’s a way to voice dissent. Or support a niche candidate. Companies often run contests. They ask customers to write in their favorite product. Or suggest a new slogan. Streaming services sometimes ask for show recommendations. You might write in a title you love. Social media polls might have an "other" option. This often means you can write in your answer. It's a common feature online.

When To Use It

Use write in when you need to officially suggest a candidate or item. This is especially true for elections or formal award nominations. If a form asks for "write-in candidates" or "suggestions," that's your cue. Use it when you want to actively propose something for consideration. Think about a petition where you can write in additional concerns. It’s for situations where your input is actively sought or can directly influence a choice. It’s like adding your name to the guest list, but for more important things!

When NOT To Use It

Don't use write in for casual suggestions. If you're just brainstorming with friends, say "suggest" or "recommend." For example, don't say, "Let's write in pizza for dinner" unless you're filling out a formal suggestion box. That sounds a bit odd. Also, avoid it if you're just stating an opinion. You don't write in an opinion; you state it. If you're simply sharing information, write in isn't the right fit. It implies a formal nomination or suggestion process. Stick to suggest or recommend for everyday ideas.

Common Mistakes

A frequent slip-up is using write in too casually. Saying "I'll write in my vote for you" is redundant. Your vote is already cast. You'd write in a *candidate* if they aren't listed. Another mistake is confusing it with simply writing something down. You don't write in a grocery list. You write it down. It's about the *purpose* of writing – to nominate or suggest formally.

I want to write in my favorite color. I want to suggest my favorite color.
We should write in more details. We should add more details.

Common Variations

Sometimes you'll see write-in as a hyphenated adjective. For example, "The election had many write-in votes." This refers to the votes cast for unlisted candidates. You might also hear phrases like "put in a write-in candidate." This means to actively campaign for someone not on the ballot. In some regions, especially during local elections, write-in campaigns can be quite significant. They can sometimes swing results! It's a quirky part of democratic processes.

Real Conversations

Friend 1: Did you see the ballot? None of the mayoral candidates are great.

Friend 2: I know! I'm thinking of doing a write in vote for that community organizer, Sarah Chen.

Friend 1: Oh, good idea! I hadn't thought of her.

T

Teacher

For the class president election, remember you can write in a name if you don't support the listed candidates.
S

Student

So, if I want to vote for someone else, I just write their name on the line?
T

Teacher

Exactly. That's a write in vote.

Quick FAQ

Q. What does write in mean?

It means to officially suggest or nominate someone or something. Think of adding a name to an election ballot. Or suggesting someone for an award. It's an active way to propose a choice.

Q. Is write in formal or informal?

It can be both! It's formal in elections and award nominations. But it can be used more casually for suggestions in group chats or informal settings.

Q. Can I write in anything?

Generally, yes, if the context allows for suggestions or nominations. However, formal processes might have rules. Always check the specific guidelines for elections or contests.

Q. What's the difference between write in and suggest?

Write in implies a more formal or official act of nomination. Suggest is broader and can be more casual. You write in a candidate for president. You suggest a movie for Friday night.

Q. Are there other ways to say write in?

Yes, depending on the context. You could say nominate, propose, put forward, or recommend. The best choice depends on how official the suggestion needs to be.

Q. What if I don't like the candidates?

You can write in a candidate you prefer. This is a common way to express dissatisfaction. Or to support someone not officially listed. It's your right as a voter in many places!

Q. Does write in apply to online forms?

Absolutely! Many online forms have a field for "other" or "write-in." This is where you'd write in your specific answer or suggestion.

Q. Is it common to write in someone who wins?

It happens, but it's not super common for major elections. It's more frequent in smaller contests or local races. Sometimes a write-in campaign can gain surprising traction!

Q. What's a write-in ballot?

A write-in ballot is a ballot where you can write the name of a candidate. This is used when the candidate isn't pre-printed on the ballot. It gives voters more choice.

Q. Can I write in a protest vote?

Yes, you can write in anyone as a form of protest. It signals you're not happy with the options provided. It's a way to make your voice heard indirectly.

Q. What's the vibe of write in?

The vibe is proactive and official. It suggests taking action to influence a decision. It can range from serious political action to fun suggestions for a party game.

Q. Is write in used in British English?

Yes, write in is understood and used in British English, particularly in the context of elections or formal suggestions. The usage is very similar to American English.

Q. What if I write in a misspelled name?

That depends on the election rules. Some systems might count it if the intent is clear. Others might discard it. It's best to double-check the specific rules for that election.

Q. Can I write in a fictional character?

In a fun context, sure! Like for a joke contest. But in a real election, you'd write in a real person's name. Fictional characters aren't eligible to hold office!

Q. What does "write-in candidate" mean?

A write-in candidate is someone who is not listed on the ballot. Voters must write their name on the ballot to vote for them. They can be nominated by others or just be a popular figure.

Q. How do I write in a suggestion for a product?

Look for a "feedback" or "suggestions" section on the company's website. You can then type your suggestion there. This is how you'd write in your idea for a new feature or product.

Q. Is write in similar to vote for?

Not exactly. Vote for means to select a candidate already on the ballot. Write in means to nominate or suggest a candidate who is *not* on the ballot. It's a specific type of voting action.

Q. What's the opposite of write in?

There isn't a perfect single-word opposite. But you could say cross out or omit if you were removing someone. Or simply vote for an existing candidate, which is the standard action.

Q. Can write in be used for jobs?

Yes, you might write in a recommendation for someone for a job. For example, "I'd like to write in my colleague, Jane Doe, for the team lead position." It means formally recommending them.

Q. What's the plural of write in?

Write in itself isn't typically pluralized as a verb phrase. You'd talk about "write-in votes" or "write-in candidates." The action is singular, but the results can be plural.

Q. Does write in always involve paper?

No, not anymore! Many modern systems allow you to write in candidates or suggestions electronically. Think online forms, digital ballots, or comment sections.

Usage Notes

The phrase `write in` carries a sense of formal nomination or suggestion, most commonly associated with elections and award processes. While it can be used more casually in informal settings like group chats, its primary strength lies in official contexts. Be mindful of the distinction between `write in` (nominating someone not listed) and simply `writing` or `entering` information.

🎯

Think 'Official Input'

Whenever you see or use `write in`, think of it as an *official* way to put a name or idea forward. It's not just a passing thought; it's a formal suggestion or nomination.

⚠️

Avoid Casual Blunders!

Don't say 'Let's `write in` pizza.' It sounds weird! Use `suggest`, `order`, or `choose` for casual food decisions. Stick to formal nominations for `write in` to avoid sounding awkward.

💬

The Power of the Write-In

In some elections, a successful `write-in` campaign can actually change the outcome! It highlights how even unofficial candidates can gain traction if enough people rally behind them.

💡

Check the Ballot Rules

If you're planning to `write in` a candidate, double-check the specific rules for that election. Some places have strict requirements about who can be written in and how.

💡

Adjective Alert!

Remember the hyphenated form: `write-in`. Use it as an adjective, like 'a `write-in` candidate' or 'a `write-in` vote'. It's super handy!

Examples

12
#1 Texting a friend about an election
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Ugh, I don't like any of the main candidates, so I'm planning to `write in` my neighbor.

I don't like any of the main candidates, so I'm planning to `write in` my neighbor.

Used casually to indicate a personal, unofficial nomination for a candidate not on the ballot.

#2 Filling out an award nomination form
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Please `write in` the nominee's achievements in the space provided below.

Please `write in` the nominee's achievements in the space provided below.

Formal instruction on a form, asking for details about the person being nominated.

#3 Instagram caption for a contest
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Want to win free tickets? 🎟️ `Write in` your dream vacation spot in the comments below! Winner announced Friday! #DreamVacation #Contest

Want to win free tickets? 🎟️ `Write in` your dream vacation spot in the comments below! Winner announced Friday! #DreamVacation #Contest

Used on social media to encourage user participation and suggestions for a contest.

#4 Job interview follow-up email
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

I would like to `write in` a recommendation for my former colleague, Alex, for the open project manager position.

I would like to `write in` a recommendation for my former colleague, Alex, for the open project manager position.

Formal professional context, meaning to formally recommend someone.

#5 Discussing a movie night
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

We've seen all the new releases. Let's just `write in` 'The Lord of the Rings' for tonight.

We've seen all the new releases. Let's just `write in` 'The Lord of the Rings' for tonight.

Casual suggestion, implying adding a movie title to the list of options.

Mistake: Casual suggestion Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ Let's `write in` pizza for dinner tonight.

Let's `write in` pizza for dinner tonight.

This is too casual for 'write in'. 'Suggest' or 'order' would be better.

Mistake: Voting context Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

✗ I need to `write in` my vote for the candidate.

I need to `write in` my vote for the candidate.

You don't 'write in' your vote; you 'write in' a candidate if they aren't listed. 'Cast my vote' or 'vote for' is correct.

#8 Humorous suggestion in a group chat
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Okay team, for the office Secret Santa, I'm going to `write in` Santa Claus himself! 🎅

Okay team, for the office Secret Santa, I'm going to `write in` Santa Claus himself! 🎅

Playful use, suggesting a universally known figure in a humorous way.

#9 Emotional plea for a nomination
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

She's worked so hard; we really need to `write in` her name for the 'Employee of the Year' award.

She's worked so hard; we really need to `write in` her name for the 'Employee of the Year' award.

Expresses a strong desire and urgency to nominate someone.

#10 Online feedback form

The website is great, but I'd like to `write in` a suggestion for a dark mode feature.

The website is great, but I'd like to `write in` a suggestion for a dark mode feature.

Used in the context of providing feedback or suggestions via an online form.

#11 Formal recommendation
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

During the committee meeting, I decided to `write in` Dr. Evelyn Reed as a potential speaker.

During the committee meeting, I decided to `write in` Dr. Evelyn Reed as a potential speaker.

Formal action taken within a meeting to propose someone.

#12 Regional election context

In this small town, the `write-in` candidate actually won the mayoral race last year!

In this small town, the `write-in` candidate actually won the mayoral race last year!

Refers to a candidate who received votes by being written on the ballot, not pre-listed.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: write in

`Write in` is used here to mean officially suggest or nominate someone for an award.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`Write in` implies a formal nomination or suggestion process, often on a ballot or form. For general brainstorming, `suggest` or `add` is more appropriate.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase 'write in' correctly.

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly uses `write in` to mean suggest or submit an idea. Option A is incorrect because you don't write in your own name for a competition you're entering. Option C is incorrect because `write in` isn't used for simply mentioning a book. Option D is too general; `write` or `put` would be better.

Translate this sentence into English.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

The phrase 'escribir el nombre' in this context translates to the English idiom `write in the name` of a candidate.

Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: write in

In the context of an online poll asking for a name suggestion, `write in` signifies submitting a choice.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`Write in` implies a formal nomination or suggestion, often for a specific slot (like a candidate). For general opinions, `express`, `state`, or `share` are more suitable.

Choose the sentence that uses 'write in' most appropriately.

Which sentence uses 'write in' most appropriately?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly uses `write in` for nominating someone for an award. Option A is incorrect; `hand in` or `submit` is better. Option C is incorrect; `write` is sufficient. Option D is too informal; `add` or `include` would be better.

Translate this sentence into English.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

In this context, 'écrire le nom de votre choix' translates to `write in the name of your choice`, implying a nomination or suggestion.

🎉 Score: /8

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Spectrum of 'Write In'

Very Casual

Rarely used, might sound odd.

Let's write in pizza for dinner.

Casual

Used in informal suggestions, like group chats or casual polls.

I'm going to write in 'The Matrix' for movie night.

Neutral

Common in online forms, feedback sections, or general suggestions.

Please write in your feedback below.

Formal

Standard usage for elections, nominations, and official requests.

Voters can write in a candidate of their choice.

Very Formal

Used in official documentation and legal contexts.

The ballot allows voters to write in any eligible citizen.

Where You'll Encounter 'Write In'

Write In
🗳️

National Election

Voters can write in their preferred candidate.

🏆

Award Nomination

Write in the nominee's strengths.

💻

Online Poll

Write in your suggestion for the new mascot.

💡

Company Contest

Write in your slogan idea!

👨‍💼

Job Recommendation

I want to write in my colleague for the promotion.

🎬

Informal Suggestion

Let's write in 'Inception' for movie night.

Comparing 'Write In' with Similar Phrases

Write In
write in Nominate someone officially, often for elections or awards.
write-in Adjective describing a candidate or vote for someone not on the ballot.
Suggest
suggest Offer an idea or plan; can be formal or informal.
recommend Advise someone to do something; often implies endorsement.
Enter/Submit
enter Put information into a system, like data or a competition entry.
submit Present something for consideration or judgment; often formal.

Contexts for Using 'Write In'

🏛️

Elections

  • Ballot nomination
  • Protest vote
  • Unlisted candidate
🏅

Formal Nominations

  • Award suggestions
  • Employee recognition
  • Speaker proposals
💬

Suggestions & Feedback

  • Online forms
  • Contest entries
  • Product ideas
🗣️

Informal Use

  • Group chat ideas
  • Casual recommendations
  • Playful suggestions

Practice Bank

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase. Fill Blank beginner

For the "Best New Artist" award, fans can ___ their favorite singer.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: write in

`Write in` is used here to mean officially suggest or nominate someone for an award.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

We should write in more ideas for the marketing campaign.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: We should suggest more ideas for the marketing campaign.

`Write in` implies a formal nomination or suggestion process, often on a ballot or form. For general brainstorming, `suggest` or `add` is more appropriate.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase 'write in' correctly. Choose intermediate

Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly uses `write in` to mean suggest or submit an idea. Option A is incorrect because you don't write in your own name for a competition you're entering. Option C is incorrect because `write in` isn't used for simply mentioning a book. Option D is too general; `write` or `put` would be better.

Translate this sentence into English. Translate advanced

Los votantes pueden escribir el nombre de su candidato preferido si no está en la papeleta.

Hints: The Spanish verb 'escribir' can mean 'write'., Consider the context of elections and ballots.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Voters can write in the name of their preferred candidate if they are not on the ballot.

The phrase 'escribir el nombre' in this context translates to the English idiom `write in the name` of a candidate.

Fill in the blank with the correct phrase. Fill Blank advanced

The online poll allowed users to ___ a name for the new mascot.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: write in

In the context of an online poll asking for a name suggestion, `write in` signifies submitting a choice.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix advanced

Find and fix the mistake:

He wanted to write in his opinion about the new policy.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: He wanted to express his opinion about the new policy.

`Write in` implies a formal nomination or suggestion, often for a specific slot (like a candidate). For general opinions, `express`, `state`, or `share` are more suitable.

Choose the sentence that uses 'write in' most appropriately. Choose advanced

Which sentence uses 'write in' most appropriately?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly uses `write in` for nominating someone for an award. Option A is incorrect; `hand in` or `submit` is better. Option C is incorrect; `write` is sufficient. Option D is too informal; `add` or `include` would be better.

Translate this sentence into English. Translate beginner

Vous pouvez écrire le nom de votre choix.

Hints: The French verb 'écrire' means 'to write'., Consider the context of making a suggestion.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: You can write in the name of your choice.

In this context, 'écrire le nom de votre choix' translates to `write in the name of your choice`, implying a nomination or suggestion.

🎉 Score: /8

Frequently Asked Questions

20 questions

It means to officially suggest or nominate someone or something, typically when they are not already listed on an official ballot or form. Think of it as actively adding a name or idea to a predefined list for consideration.

You should use 'write in' primarily in formal contexts like elections where you can nominate a candidate not on the ballot, or when filling out forms for awards, contests, or suggestions where a specific space is provided for your input.

Not strictly! While its core meaning is formal (like in elections), it can be used more casually in group chats or informal polls to suggest an option. However, its formal roots mean it always implies a degree of active suggestion or nomination.

Write in usually implies a more official or formal act of nomination or suggestion, often within a structured system like a ballot or nomination form. 'Suggest' is a broader term that can be more casual and doesn't necessarily imply an official process.

Certainly! In a professional context, you might say, 'I'd like to write in my colleague, Sarah, for the leadership training program.' This means you are formally recommending her for consideration.

In voting, 'write in' refers to the act of writing the name of a candidate on the ballot who is not officially listed. This allows voters to choose someone other than the pre-selected options.

Yes, a common mistake is using it too casually, like 'Let's write in pizza for dinner.' This sounds unnatural because write in implies a formal nomination. Also, confusing it with just 'writing something down' is a mistake; the purpose is key.

The hyphenated form write-in is typically used as an adjective. For example, 'a write-in candidate' refers to someone nominated by voters writing their name on the ballot, or 'a write-in vote' is the vote cast for such a candidate.

Absolutely! Many online forms, surveys, and feedback portals include an 'Other' or 'Please specify' field. This is where you would write in your specific answer or suggestion, fulfilling the phrase's core meaning.

The vibe is generally proactive and official. It suggests taking a deliberate action to influence a decision or outcome by proposing a specific choice, whether it's serious (like an election) or slightly less so (like a contest suggestion).

The core meaning and usage of write in are very similar in both American and British English, especially concerning elections and formal suggestions. You might find slight variations in frequency, but the understanding is consistent.

Whether a misspelled write-in vote counts depends entirely on the election rules and the discretion of the election officials. Often, if the intent is clear, it might be counted, but it's always best to spell names correctly to be safe.

In informal contexts, like a fun poll or a joke suggestion, yes! However, for official elections or nominations, you must write in a real, eligible person's name. Fictional characters can't hold public office!

A write-in candidate is someone who runs for office without being officially listed on the ballot. Voters must manually write their name on the ballot to cast a vote for them. They might be a protest candidate or someone who gained popularity late.

You typically do this through a company's official feedback channels, like a website form, customer service email, or a dedicated suggestion box. You'd clearly state your idea, effectively 'writing it in' for the company to consider.

Not exactly an opposite, but they represent different actions. 'Vote for' means choosing a candidate already on the ballot. 'Write in' means nominating or selecting someone *not* on the ballot, which is a specific type of voting action.

Yes! You can write in suggestions for things like contest entries, product ideas, song titles for a playlist, or even movie choices for a group. The key is proposing something specific for consideration.

If many people write in the same candidate, that candidate can potentially gain significant support, sometimes even winning the election, especially if the listed candidates are unpopular. It demonstrates the power of collective voter action.

Definitely! Modern technology allows for electronic write-in options. This includes typing names into digital ballot forms, adding suggestions in online comment sections, or filling out electronic feedback forms.

Potentially, yes. For instance, a judge might allow parties to write in specific conditions or clauses into an agreement, provided they are legally permissible and relevant to the case. It signifies adding specific terms formally.

Related Phrases

🔄

nominate

synonym

To formally propose someone or something for a position, prize, or honor.

Both phrases involve formally putting forward a candidate or suggestion for consideration, often in official contexts.

🔗

suggest

related topic

To put forward an idea or plan for consideration.

`Write in` is a specific type of suggestion, usually more formal and often involving filling in a blank space.

🔄

put forward

synonym

To propose or suggest someone or something for a position or purpose.

Similar to `write in`, this phrase implies proposing someone or something, especially in a more formal or official manner.

🔗

enter

related topic

To become or cause to become a participant in a competition or competition.

You might `enter` a competition, and sometimes this involves `writing in` your name or details.

🔗

recommend

related topic

To advise or suggest something as being suitable for a particular purpose or time.

You might `write in` a recommendation for someone, making it a specific way to formally recommend.

↔️

cross out

antonym

To remove or cancel something by drawing a line through it.

While `write in` adds a name or option, `cross out` removes or cancels one, representing opposite actions on a list or ballot.

🔗

cast a vote

related topic

To register your choice in an election or poll.

`Write in` is a specific method of casting a vote, distinct from voting for a pre-listed candidate.

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