sic
1 synonyms and 0 antonyms for sic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — Used in brackets after a quoted word to show it is copied exactly as written, errors included.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Etymology
A learned borrowing from Latin sic, meaning "thus, so."
Full origin of sic →Frequently asked questions
What does “sic” mean?
The word “sic” means used in brackets after a quoted word to show it is copied exactly as written, errors included. In plain terms, a bracketed note meaning "yes, that's really how the original said it" — or, as a verb, to set a dog loose on someone.
How do you pronounce “sic”?
“Sic” is pronounced sihk (/sɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “sic” in a sentence?
Here is “sic” used in a sentence: “She sicced her dog on the intruder.”
What part of speech is “sic”?
Depending on how it is used, “sic” can be an adverb and a verb.
Where does the word “sic” come from?
The word “sic” comes from Latin. A learned borrowing from Latin sic, meaning "thus, so.".
Is “sic” a common word?
“Sic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “sic” have?
“Sic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used in brackets after a quoted word to show it is copied exactly as written, errors included.
What is the difference between "sic" and "[sic]"?
"Sic" is the word itself, placed inside brackets as "[sic]" directly after a quoted word or phrase to show it is copied exactly as originally written, errors included. The brackets are simply the formatting convention used to insert the word into a quotation.
When should you use "[sic]" in writing?
Use "[sic]" immediately after a quoted error, such as a misspelling or grammatical mistake, to signal that you are quoting accurately rather than making the mistake yourself. It is common in journalism, academic writing, and formal quotations.
Is "sic" only used in writing, or can it be a verb too?
"Sic" has two distinct uses: as an adverb inserted in brackets to mark a quoted error, and as a verb meaning to urge an animal, especially a dog, to attack, as in "sic the dog on him." The two uses are unrelated in meaning.