BharatNotes Writ
noun (also archaic past participle/adjective, as in "writ large")Usage in a UPSC answer
The Constitution arms the higher judiciary with the prerogative writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, certiorari, prohibition and quo warranto, transforming Articles 32 and 226 into the citizen's most potent shield against arbitrary State action.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
write (v), written (adj), writ (n/archaic adj), writs (n pl), writer (n), rewrite (v)
Root
Old English writ/ġewrit = writing; Proto-Germanic writą; PIE wrey- = to scratch, carve
Etymology
From Old English writ and ġewrit ("writing"), derived from Proto-Germanic writą ("writing, fissure"), ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root wrey- ("to scratch, carve"); in English common law, writs became the standard mechanism through which royal courts exercised jurisdiction.
Memory Hook
A writ is something WRITten by a court that you must obey; think "what is WRIT-ten by the judge is law".
How This Word Works in UPSC Writing
A formal written order issued by a court commanding or forbidding an act. Article 32 guarantees the right to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of fundamental rights, and Article 32(2) names five writs: habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari. Two further clauses are examinable in their own right. Article 32(3) allows Parliament to empower any other court to exercise these powers within its jurisdiction, and Article 32(4) provides that the right shall not be suspended except as otherwise provided by the Constitution. High Courts also exercise writ jurisdiction, and their power is wider because it extends beyond fundamental rights to other legal rights as well.
Don’t Confuse It With
Habeas corpus produces a detained person before the court to test the legality of detention. Mandamus commands a public authority to perform its duty. Prohibition stops a lower court exceeding its jurisdiction while proceedings continue. Certiorari quashes an order already made. Quo warranto questions a person's authority to hold a public office. Prohibition and certiorari are the pair most often confused: the first is preventive, the second corrective.
Hindi Meaning
रिट (rit); बंदी प्रत्यक्षीकरण is habeas corpus and परमादेश is mandamus.
Common Questions
- Which writs does Article 32 name?
- Article 32(2) names five: habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari.
- What is the difference between prohibition and certiorari?
- Prohibition is preventive, stopping a lower court or tribunal from exceeding its jurisdiction while a matter is still pending. Certiorari is corrective, quashing an order that has already been made.
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Prelims 2025 — Fundamental Rights
- Prelims 2022 — Fundamental Rights
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Writ” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
Tip: press Alt+S to hear pronunciation
