transcribe
tran-SKRYB
/trænˈskraɪb/
To put thoughts, speech, or data into written or printed form.
Implies changing the medium (e.g., from audio to text) while keeping the content identical.
The story behind the word. From 'trans-' (across) and 'scribere' (to write). It means to carry the words 'across' from one form (like sound) to another (like paper).
Word relationships
- copy: Copy is general; transcribe specifically implies a change in format (audio to text).
- record: Record can mean audio or video; transcribe is specifically about writing.
- summarize: Summarizing shortens the content; transcribing keeps it all.
Commonly confused with
- translate: Translate changes the language; transcribe only changes the medium.
Word family
- transcription (noun): a written or printed representation of something.
- transcript (noun): a written version of material.
Collocations
- transcribe an interview
- transcribe notes
- accurately transcribe
Example sentences
- "The reporter had to transcribe the entire three-hour interview before she could start writing her story." Journalism
- "In the cell, enzymes transcribe the genetic code from DNA into RNA." Biology
Memory hook
Transcribe = Transfer to writing. Write it across media.
When not to use
Don't use 'transcribe' if you are summarizing; it must be a word-for-word copy.
Fun facts
- In music, 'transcribing' means rewriting a piece of music for a different instrument.
Related words
Explore more words
inscribe, document, articulate, translate, Transmit, manuscript
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