Written or Writen

Which Spelling is Correct?

Confused between "written" and "writen"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.

Incorrect: Writen

"Writen" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "written" with two "t"s.

Correct: Written

"Written" is the correct spelling. It is the past participle of the verb "write".

Summary

Written is the correct spelling. It is the past participle of the irregular verb "write" meaning to have formed letters or words.

Writen is incorrect and should never be used in formal writing.

Definition

Written (past participle)

The past participle of "write"; to have formed letters or words on a surface using a pen, pencil, or other writing instrument.

Written (adjective)

Expressed in writing; recorded or documented in written form.

Usage

Used in perfect tenses and as an adjective to describe something that has been put into writing.

Examples

Correct: "I have written the report."

Correct: "The book was written by a famous author."

Correct: "She has written many articles."

Incorrect: "I have writen the report" (should be "written")

Synonyms

For composed:

  • • Penned
  • • Composed
  • • Drafted
  • • Authored
  • • Created

For recorded:

  • • Documented
  • • Recorded
  • • Noted
  • • Jotted
  • • Scribbled

Notes:

  • • "Written" is spelled with two "t"s
  • • It is the past participle of the irregular verb "write"
  • • The word comes from Old English "writen"
  • • Other forms: write (present), wrote (past)
  • • Often used in perfect tenses and passive voice

Frequently Asked Questions

Is "writen" ever correct?

No, "writen" is never correct. The correct spelling is always "written" with two "t"s.

How do you pronounce "written"?

It's pronounced as "RIT-n" with the stress on the first syllable.

What's the difference between "written" and "writen"?

"Written" is the correct past participle of write, while "writen" is simply a misspelling that should never be used.

When do you use "written"?

"Written" is used in perfect tenses (have written, had written) and passive voice (was written, is written).

Is it common to misspell "written"?

Yes, some people incorrectly spell it as "writen", possibly because they forget the second "t". This is a common spelling mistake.

Final Summary

Written is the correct spelling. It is the past participle of the irregular verb "write" meaning to have formed letters or words.

Writen is always incorrect. Remember to include both "t"s when writing this word.