escrito

Escrito is a term used in Spanish and Portuguese with related but distinct uses. In both languages it can function as an adjective meaning "written," as in an object produced by writing, and as a noun referring to a written document or text. In everyday language, an escrito can denote a letter, a manuscript, an article, or any formally produced piece of writing. In legal and administrative contexts, the word is common for referring to a formal written document submitted to an authority, such as a court or government office, for example a written complaint, petition, or defense.

In Spanish, escrito as a noun often designates a document or a written statement, especially in legal settings where "presentar un escrito" means to file a written pleading. The phrase "un escrito de demanda" or "un escrito de defensa" illustrates its use as a specific type of document. As an adjective, escrito describes something that is not spoken but written, contrasting with oral or verbal forms, for instance "texto escrito" vs "texto oral."

In Portuguese, escrito similarly denotes a written text or document and is the past participle of the verb escrever (to write). It can refer to a document, a written record, or a piece of writing, and is used in legal and bureaucratic language as well as in everyday contexts.

Etymologically, escrito comes from Latin scriptus, past participle of scribere, and shares its roots with related terms in related Romance languages. See also: documento, texto, escrita/escrita, redacción, pleito.