Definition

1. Noun:
   • Communication by means of written symbols: The act or process of exchanging information, ideas, or messages using a system of visual marks or symbols that represent language. This includes text that is either printed (e.g., in a book, newspaper) or handwritten (e.g., a letter, a note).

Usage

• Written communication is a formal term used to describe the broad category of communicating through writing. It emphasizes the medium (written symbols) rather than the specific content or purpose.
• It is often contrasted with oral communication or verbal communication.
• It is typically used in academic, professional, and technical contexts to discuss the nature, effectiveness, or study of writing as a communicative tool.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The contract serves as a formal written communication between the two parties.
  • In the digital age, email has become a dominant form of written communication.
  • Historians study ancient written communication to understand past civilizations.

Advanced Usage

• "The art of written communication": Refers to the skill of conveying ideas clearly and effectively through writing.

  • Good lawyers must master the art of written communication for drafting precise legal documents.

• "Channels of written communication": Refers to the different mediums or methods used for written exchange (e.g., letters, reports, memos, texts).

  • Companies use multiple channels of written communication, including internal wikis and project management software.

Variants and Related Words

• Written language (n): A more general term for any language expressed through writing, as opposed to speech.

  • The development of written language was a major milestone in human history.

• Correspondence (n): Often used specifically for the exchange of written letters, especially formal or business-related ones.

  • All correspondence with the client must be filed appropriately.

Synonyms

• Written correspondence: Specifically implies an exchange of written messages.
• Documentation: Often refers to written communication that serves as a formal record or evidence.
• Text: Can refer to any written material, especially in digital contexts.

Related Phrases

• In writing: A phrase meaning "expressed or documented using written symbols," often used to indicate formality or permanence.

  • Please confirm your agreement in writing.

• Written record: A documented account of information preserved through writing.

  • The meeting's minutes provide a written record of the decisions made.

Notes

• Written communication is an uncountable noun when referring to the general concept or activity. It can be used in a countable sense when referring to specific instances or pieces (e.g., "various written communications were reviewed").
• The term encompasses a vast range of formats, from personal notes to legal statutes, all united by the use of written symbols to convey meaning.

Noun

1. communication by means of written symbols (either printed or handwritten)