Ask OASIS Basics of Latin Abbreviations
Latin abbreviations are an effective way to use common argumentative phrases in parenthetical material without taking up much space or distracting your readers from the main ideas of your sentences. However, in the text of your paper, you should instead use the English translations of these abbreviations.
| Latin Abbreviation | Latin Phrase | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| i.e. | id est | that is |
| e.g. | exempli gratia | for example |
| etc. | et cetera | and so forth |
| vs. | versus | versus, against, in opposition to |
| cf. | confer | compare |
Examples of Latin Abbreviations in Use
See these examples of sentences with Latin abbreviations paired next to sentences with the English translation.
Latin Abbreviation
The list includes a variety of fruits that are commonly available in most U.S. supermarkets (e.g., apples, oranges, and bananas).
English Translation
The list includes a variety of fruits that are commonly available in most American supermarkets —for example, apples, oranges, and bananas.
Latin Abbreviation
The subjects were asked to describe their feelings (i.e., their moods, perceptions, and emotions) in the box provided on the survey form.
English Translation
The subjects were asked to describe their feelings—that is, their moods, perceptions, and emotions—in the box provided on the survey form.
Latin Abbreviation
Survey respondents ranked their choices in order of preference (first, second, third, etc.).
English Translation
Survey respondents ranked their choices in order of preference: first, second, third, and so forth.
