ABC
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for ABC, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The alphabet, or the basics of a subject.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use ABC
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English abece, ABC, from the first three letters of the Latin alphabet, standing for the whole alphabet.
Full origin of ABC →Frequently asked questions
What does “ABC” mean?
The word “ABC” means the alphabet, or the basics of a subject. In plain terms, either the alphabet itself or, used figuratively, the very basic first steps of learning something.
How do you use “ABC” in a sentence?
Here is “ABC” used in a sentence: “Children learn their ABCs before they start reading.”
What part of speech is “ABC”?
“ABC” is a noun.
Is “ABC” a common word?
“ABC” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'ABC' and 'alphabet'?
'ABC' (often written 'ABCs') is an informal name for the alphabet or for the basics of a subject, while 'alphabet' is the standard, neutral term for the full set of letters. 'ABC' also carries the extra sense of elementary fundamentals, as in 'the ABCs of cooking.'
Is the plural written 'ABCs' or 'ABC's'?
The plural is usually written 'ABCs' without an apostrophe. The form 'ABC's' with an apostrophe is generally reserved for possessives, as in 'the ABC's importance.'
Can 'ABC' refer to the basics of any subject?
Yes. Beyond the alphabet, 'the ABCs of' something refers to its most fundamental principles, as in 'the ABCs of investing' or 'the ABCs of first aid.'