записывать vs записать
zapisyvat vs zapisat — write down/record regularly vs write down/record once
Register: neutral
What it really means
Запи́сывать is imperfective for writing down, recording, or enrolling as a process or habit. Записа́ть is perfective for making one note, recording one file, or registering someone once. Context determines whether it means note down, record, or sign up.
Examples in natural speech
Я записываю новые слова в тетрадь.
I write new words down in a notebook.
Она записывает лекцию.
She is recording the lecture.
Запиши мой номер.
Write down my number.
Я записался к врачу.
I made an appointment with a doctor.
Мы записали разговор.
We recorded the conversation.
Common mistakes
Do not assume записать only means write. Записать аудио means record audio, while записаться is reflexive and means sign up or make an appointment.
Memory tip
За- + писать puts words or sound on record; записать completes one recording or note.
Frequently asked questions
How do you say write it down?
Say Запиши это. It is a perfective request to make one note.
What does записаться mean?
Записаться means register, sign up, or make an appointment: записаться к врачу.
Can записывать mean record?
Yes. Записывать видео or лекцию means record video or a lecture.
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