Translation guide
The English verb "write" covers many actions, from forming letters to composing texts and filling out forms. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being written and how.
To form letters, characters, or words on a surface with a pen, pencil, etc.
The most general verb for writing by hand. Covers writing letters, notes, memos, etc.
I write a letter.
ノートに名前を書いた。
I wrote my name in the notebook.
To create a written work, such as a story, report, or email.
Also used for composing texts, even when typing. Covers writing novels, reports, emails, etc.
小説を書いている。
I'm writing a novel.
レポートを書かなければならない。
I have to write a report.
Formal/literary term for writing, especially for publication. Used for books, articles, scholarly works.
彼は新しい本を執筆中だ。
He is currently writing a new book.
To put information in writing for future reference.
To write down or note something so you don't forget.
彼の電話番号を書き留めた。
I wrote down his phone number.
To take a memo or jot down. Very common in casual and business contexts.
要点をメモしてください。
Please write down the main points.
To complete a form by writing required information.
To fill in blanks on a form, application, etc.
この用紙に必要事項を記入してください。
Please write the necessary information on this form.
To write in (a field, box, or space). Often used for filling in details on a form or document.
申込書に住所を書き込んだ。
I wrote my address on the application form.
To write a check, prescription, receipt, etc.
Used for issuing or writing certain documents like checks, tickets, or prescriptions. Literally means 'to cut', but idiomatic here.
小切手を切る。
To write a check.
医者が処方箋を切った。
The doctor wrote a prescription.
To issue or write an official document, ticket, certificate, etc.
領収書を発行してください。
Please write me a receipt.
To write computer code.
Also used for writing code, though sometimes プログラミングする or コーディングする are used.
Pythonでプログラムを書く。
I write programs in Python.
To code. Common in tech contexts.
新しい機能をコーディングしている。
I'm coding a new feature.
While 書く can be used for writing on a form, 記入する is more natural for filling in blanks. Using 書く in this context may sound like you are writing the form itself, not completing it.
申込書を記入する。
To fill out an application form.
書く (かく) means to write characters or text. 描く (かく/えがく) means to draw or paint a picture. They are homophones but use different kanji. Be careful not to confuse them.