What does b.c. mean in time Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

A phrase used to indicate the beginning of a time period, with “b.c.” standing for “before Christ” or “before common era.” 🔊

Part of Speech

Predicate

Definition

A phrase used to indicate the beginning of a time period, with “b.c.” standing for “before Christ” or “before common era” to denote a span of time prior to the birth of Jesus Christ or the start of the common era.

Examples

• The ancient civilization flourished 2000 b.c. in the Mediterranean region.
• Archeologists have uncovered artifacts dating back 5000 b.c. in the Middle East.

Synonyms

• Pre-Christian era
• Antediluvian period

Antonyms

• A.D.
• After Christ

Etymology

The phrase “b.c.” originated from the Latin phrases “ante Christum” (before Christ) and “ante diem” (before day), which were used to denote time periods.

Usage Notes

Avoid using “b.c.” in formal or academic writing, as it may be perceived as outdated or colloquial. Instead, use “before Christ” or “before common era” if necessary.

Cultural References

The phrase “b.c.” has appeared in various works of literature, including Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and more recently in the TV show “The Big Bang Theory.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Common idioms including “B.C. and A.D.” (before Christ and Anno Domini), “B.C.E.” (Before Common Era), and “A.D.E.” (Anno Domini Era).

Related Words or Phrases

• Antediluvian
• Prehistoric

Collocations

• b.c. era
• b.c. era history

Frequency of Use

The phrase “b.c.” is relatively rare in modern language, mostly used in historical or academic contexts.

Common Misspellings

• bce
• bce,
• bc