Sic: meaning, usage, history and editorial practice

Form and placement

The conventional form is the lower-case italicized word enclosed in square brackets: [sic]. It is placed immediately after the word or passage to which it refers, for example: "She wrote, 'Their cat is very independant [sic].'" Some house styles permit parentheses instead of brackets or omit italics, but brackets are the most widely used mark to show an editorial insertion. For guidance on bracket use, see square brackets and on typographic emphasis consult sources on italic conventions.

Origin and pronunciation

The practice derives from Latin editorial formulae such as sic erat scriptum ("thus was it written") and from the Latin adverb sic itself. Historically English speakers sometimes used a long vowel, but contemporary spoken English most often pronounces it to rhyme with "sick." For background on the Latin root see entries on Latin words and phrases.

Common uses and examples

• To flag spelling or typographical errors: "He noted the date as 'Febuary [sic].'"
• To indicate preserved nonstandard grammar or dialect: "The letter began, 'I ain't got none [sic].'"
• To show that offensive or sensitive language is quoted verbatim and not the quoter's wording.

Alternative editorial choices include supplying a corrected reading in brackets (e.g., "[definitely]"), using a footnote or endnote to explain the change, or paraphrasing the passage when exact wording is not essential. See guidance on writing and on handling quoted material in style manuals.

Style considerations and etiquette

Although useful, [sic] can appear pedantic or mocking if overused. Many style guides recommend using it sparingly and only when failing to mark an error would mislead the reader. In academic, archival, and legal contexts exact transcription is often required and [sic] is appropriate; in journalism and general prose a brief note or silent correction is sometimes preferable. For punctuation rules around quotations consult authorities on punctuation.

Related editorial marks

Editors use other bracketed devices for clarity: corrections or supplied words are placed in brackets, ellipses mark omissions, and notes such as cf. or full Latin phrases may be used for formal commentary. For lists of editorial abbreviations and common phrases, see reference works on phrases and textual conventions. Additional practical guidance and examples can be found in style guides and editorial manuals on transcription and citation practices at resources treating Latin terms and editorial methodology.