Prepositions with nouns

“In writing” or “of writing”?

In writing is a common expression meaning “in written form.” Of writing usually appears after another noun, such as “the history of writing.”

Quick answer

Which form is correct?

Use in writing for something written down rather than spoken. Use of writing only in larger noun phrases where writing is the subject.

Please confirm the agreement in writing.
The instructions must be in writing.
She studies the history of writing systems.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

in writing

Meaning: in written form

Use this fixed phrase for documents, messages, or formal confirmation.

The complaint should be submitted in writing.

Nothing was provided in writing.

put in writing

Meaning: record something formally

This phrase means to write something down officially.

They agreed to put it in writing.

history of writing

Meaning: writing as a subject

Use of writing after nouns such as history, style, or process.

The course covers the history of writing.

writing about + topic

Meaning: written work on a subject

Use about for the topic of written material.

Her writing about migration is widely read.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction

Example

Meaning

in writing

The offer was confirmed in writing.

in written form

of writing

They analysed styles of writing.

writing as the subject of another noun

writing about

He enjoys writing about science.

creating text on a topic

by writing

She earns money by writing.

through the activity of writing

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using of writing instead of in writing

Use in writing for written communication.

✕ Please send the details of writing. ✓ Please send the details in writing.

Confusing writing and written

Written is an adjective; writing is usually a noun or gerund.

✕ a writing agreement ✓ a written agreement

Using in writing for a topic

Use about to introduce the subject of written work.

✕ a book in writing history ✓ a book about writing history

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. Please confirm your decision ___ writing.

2. The seminar explored the history ___ writing.

3. She makes a living by ___.

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Frequently asked questions

What does in writing mean?

It means recorded or communicated in written form rather than spoken.

Can I use of writing alone?

Usually no. It normally follows another noun, such as “forms of writing.”

Is put in writing formal?

Yes. It is commonly used in business, legal, and official contexts.

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