What are the definitions of “jot down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make a quick note.
I JOTTED DOWN her number on a scrap of paper and I can't find it now.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “jot down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb jot down is to quickly write something, usually a note or a piece of information, on a piece of paper or another surface. It is often used when you want to remember something important.
What are the different verb forms of “jot down”?
| Root Verb | jot down |
| Third Person Singular Present | jots down |
| Present Participle | jotting down |
| Simple Past | jotted down |
| Past Participle | jotted down |
Example
Please jot down your name and contact information on this form.
Example
She jots down her shopping list before going to the store.
Example
He is jotting down the main points of the lecture.
Example
Yesterday, I jotted down a few ideas for our project.
Example
The important information has been jotted down for future reference.
What kind of phrasal verb is “jot down”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“jot down” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She jotted down her phone number on a piece of paper.
Example
He jotted the address down on a sticky note.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“jot down” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She jotted down her phone number on a piece of paper.
Example
He jotted the address down on a sticky note.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “jot down”?
Write down someone's phone number, email, or address.
Example
When I meet new people, I jot down their contact information in my phone.
Good things to know
Does “jot down” have an informal or formal tone?
Jot down is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business meetings or academic lectures.
