What does hoc mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/hɒk/

Part of Speech

Abbreviation, Adverb

Definition

Hoc (Latin: “this”) is a historical abbreviation often used in academic and academic publishing contexts, particularly in fields like law, medicine, and philosophy, to reference a specific example or case in point.

Examples

Ergo hoc erat demonstrandum (EHED) – Hence, this was demonstrated.
Hoc est propositum – This is the proposal.

Synonyms

This
This refers

Antonyms

That
He

Etymology

Hoc comes from the Latin ablative singular form of the pronoun “hic,” meaning “this.”

Usage Notes

Hoc is often used in formal writing and academic publishing to add a touch of antiquity or to emphasize the Latin origins of a phrase. However, it is essential to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity when using hoc.

Cultural References

Hoc is referenced in several films and books, such as the “Calculus for Dummies” book, which includes the phrase “Hoc Ergo Sum” (Therefore I am).

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Hoc est volumen (This is the volume)
Hoc signum (This sign)

Related Words or Phrases

Other Latin abbreviations, such as Q.E.D. (Quod erat demonstrandum, or “what was to be demonstrated”), are related to hoc in their academic and historical contexts.

Collocations

EHED (Hence, this was demonstrated)
REHE (Restitutio hec verba, or “Restatement of the word”)

Frequency of Use

Hoc is relatively rare in modern language usage, mostly seen in academic and historical contexts, particularly in fields like law and medicine.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings include “hock” instead of hoc.