Jot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jot

[dส’ษ‘t ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

quickly

To write or draw quickly or casually.

Synonyms

note, scribble, write quickly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jot

Use when you need to quickly write down a small piece of information, often in a hasty or informal manner.

  • She had to jot down the address before she forgot it
  • Can you jot a quick reminder on the fridge?
scribble

Use for writing carelessly or hurriedly in a way that is often hard to read. This term can have a negative connotation.

  • Children usually scribble when they first start to write
  • He scribbled his thoughts in the margins of the book
note

This is often used for making a brief and precise record of information, typically in a more organized manner.

  • He made a note of the date in his planner
  • Please note the changes in the schedule
write quickly

This is a general term that can be used when one needs to emphasize the speed of writing without implying carelessness.

  • She had to write quickly to finish the essay before the deadline
  • Write quickly, the meeting is starting soon!

Examples of usage

  • She jotted down a few notes during the meeting.
  • Can you jot down the address for me?
Context #2 | Noun

note

A brief record or memorandum.

Synonyms

memorandum, note, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
jot

Use this word when you need to write something very quickly and briefly, often informally.

  • I'll just jot down the address before I forget it.
  • She jots her ideas in a small notebook.
note

Use 'note' for a general written record of information, thoughts, or messages. It can be both formal and informal.

  • He left a note on the fridge reminding us to buy milk.
  • She took detailed notes during the lecture.
record

This term is used for a formal, often more permanent document that serves as official evidence of facts, events, or transactions.

  • The doctor's record shows her medical history.
  • It's important to keep a record of all your expenses.
memorandum

This is best used in formal contexts, typically in business or official settings, to outline plans, policies, or announcements.

  • The manager sent out a memorandum detailing the new office policies.
  • Please review the memorandum on the recent project updates.

Examples of usage

  • I made a quick jot of the phone number.
  • He took a jot of the important points in the lecture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, jotting down notes is often depicted as key to staying organized, appearing in TV shows and movies.
  • Thereโ€™s a famous quote by Thomas Edison: 'The best way to improve your ideas is to jot them down.'
  • Jotting notes is frequently shown in productivity tips, highlighting its importance for creative thinkers.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that jotting down thoughts can help enhance memory retention.
  • Quick notes can lower cognitive load, making it easier to focus on tasks.
  • Psychologists believe that the act of writing can help clarify thoughts and reduce stress.

Literature

  • Many authors have emphasized the importance of jotting down ideas to capture inspiration when it strikes.
  • Jotting is often mentioned in writing guides as a technique for brainstorming for stories and essays.
  • Famous writers like Ernest Hemingway encouraged keeping a notebook for jotting down observations and thoughts.

Origin of 'jot'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'jot' comes from the Latin word 'jota', which refers to a small mark, like a dot.
  • In English, it evolved to mean writing something small or quickly.
  • The word has been used since the 16th century, originally referring to writing in a small way.

The word 'jot' originated from Middle English 'jotten', meaning 'to make a mark'. It is related to the Old English word 'iotan', which meant 'to set forth, to put, to cast'. Over time, 'jot' evolved to refer to a quick and brief note or record. The verb form of 'jot' emerged in the 18th century, emphasizing the act of writing or drawing quickly and casually.


See also: jotting, jottings.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,936, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.