abbreviation
cf.
see-EF
Cf. (abbreviation) means Compare: used in writing to point the reader towards another source, passage or example that is worth setting alongside the point just made. Example: “Growth slowed sharply after 1979 (cf. Chapter 4).”
abbreviation
1
formal Compare: used in writing to point the reader towards another source, passage or example that is worth setting alongside the point just made.
"Growth slowed sharply after 1979 (cf. Chapter 4)."
"The ritual has no parallel in the region; cf. the Tibetan practice described by Tucci."
2
technical Used before a species name in biology to indicate that a specimen resembles that species but has not been positively identified.
"The fossil was labelled Homo cf. erectus."
How to use cf.
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA short way of writing 'compare this with'.
When to use it
Academic and editorial. It belongs in footnotes, citations and scholarly prose, not in ordinary writing, where 'compare' or 'see' reads better.
Memory tip
Keep the full stop and lower case, and follow cf. with the thing being compared, not with your own commentary.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
cf. vs e.g.
cf. vs i.e.
cf. vs see also
Common pairings
cf. above
cf. note 12
but cf.
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Etymology
An abbreviation of Latin confer, the imperative of conferre 'to bring together, compare'.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does cf. stand for?
It abbreviates the Latin confer, meaning 'compare'. It instructs the reader to look at another text or example alongside the present one.
What is the difference between cf. and e.g.?
Use e.g. to introduce examples of the thing you have just mentioned. Use cf. to send the reader to something different that is worth comparing, often because it contrasts with or qualifies your point.
Is cf. the same as 'see'?
Not quite. 'See' points to a source that supports or explains your statement, whereas cf. points to something offered for comparison, which may agree, differ or complicate the picture.
What is the meaning of cf.?
"cf." (abbreviation) means compare: used in writing to point the reader towards another source, passage or example that is worth setting alongside the point just made.
