Use 'write down' when you want someone to remember by recording it.

Action Required

'Write down' implies using a pen and paper or typing, not just memorizing.

Physical Activity

Emphasizes the importance of capturing everything accurately.

In accounting, 'write down' means permanently reducing an asset's book value.

A write-down in a company's assets may indicate financial problems.

A write-down is a one-time event, different from regular depreciation or amortization.

Banks 'write down' the value of loans they no longer expect to collect in full.

A write-down of debt doesn't erase it, it recognizes the loss.

Writing down a debt is different from forgiving it; recovery is still sought.