Translation guide
The English phrase 'write down' means to record something in writing. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 書く (kaku), but there are several other expressions depending on the context, such as taking notes, jotting down, or filling in a form.
名前を書いてください。
Write down your name.
To record information, words, or ideas in written form.
The most general verb for 'write'. It covers 'write down' in most contexts.
Please write down your name.
メモに電話番号を書いた。
I wrote down the phone number on a memo.
Literally 'write and stop/keep'. Emphasizes recording something so you don't forget it.
彼の言葉をノートに書き留めた。
I wrote down his words in my notebook.
A more formal or literary term for 'write down' or 'record'. Often used in historical or official contexts.
歴史に名を記す。
To write one's name down in history.
To write down information during a lecture, meeting, or while reading.
The standard phrase for 'take notes'. It implies writing down key points.
講義中にメモを取った。
I took notes during the lecture.
Similar to メモを取る, but specifically implies using a notebook.
会議でノートを取る。
I take notes at meetings.
To write something down quickly or informally.
Means 'to scribble' or 'write hastily'. Used when writing something down quickly without much care.
メモを走り書きした。
I jotted down a note.
Literally 'to write violently'. Implies writing something down in a rough, hurried manner, often with emotion.
怒りを日記に書き殴った。
I furiously scribbled down my anger in my diary.
To write down required information in blanks or boxes.
The standard verb for 'fill in' or 'write down' on a form or document.
必要事項を記入してください。
Please fill in the required information.
Means 'to write in' or 'fill in'. Often used for writing in blanks or margins.
申込書に住所を書き込んだ。
I wrote down my address on the application form.
To write down information for official records or documentation.
A formal term meaning 'to record' or 'enter' in a document, register, or log.
詳細は契約書に記載されている。
The details are written down in the contract.
Means 'to register' or 'record' in a database or official list. Not a direct translation of 'write down', but used when information is officially recorded.
会員情報を登録する。
To register (write down) member information.
In English, 'write down' often just means 'write'. In Japanese, 書く (kaku) is usually sufficient. Adding a word for 'down' is unnecessary and can sound unnatural.
それを書いて。
Write that down.
書く is general 'write'. 記入する is specifically for filling in forms or documents. 書き留める emphasizes recording something so you don't forget it, like taking a note for later reference.
ここに電話番号を書いてください。
Please write down your phone number here.
重要なポイントを書き留める必要がある。
I need to write down the important points.