Approximately vs Circa: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Are you ever confused about when to use ‘approximately’ and ‘circa’? These two words are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between them that can affect the meaning of your sentence. In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of these two words and provide you with a clear understanding of when to use them.

We should define the terms. ‘Approximately’ means ‘close to the exact number or amount, but not completely accurate’. On the other hand, ‘circa’ means ‘approximately or around a specific time or date’.

So, which of these words is the proper one to use? The answer is that it depends on the context of your sentence. If you’re referring to an approximate number or amount, then ‘approximately’ is the correct word to use. However, if you’re referring to an approximate time or date, then ‘circa’ is the better choice.

Now that we’ve established the difference between these two words, let’s dive deeper into their usage in various contexts.

Define Approximately

Approximately is an adverb that is used to indicate an estimated or rough amount or number, without being precise. It is often used to give a general idea of something, without needing to provide an exact figure. For example, if someone says “the meeting will start at approximately 2pm”, it means that the meeting may start a few minutes before or after 2pm, but it is not expected to start exactly at 2pm.

Define Circa

Circa is a Latin word that means “around” or “about”. It is often used to indicate an approximate date or time period, without being specific. For example, if a historian says that a certain event happened circa 500 BC, it means that the event happened sometime around the year 500 BC, but the exact year is not known or is uncertain.

Circa is often abbreviated as “c.” or “ca.” before the year or date. For example, “c. 500 BC” or “ca. 500 BC”.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words in a sentence, precision is key. Two words that are often used interchangeably, but have distinct differences, are “approximately” and “circa”. In this section, we’ll explore how to use these words properly in a sentence.

How To Use “Approximately” In A Sentence

“Approximately” is an adverb that means “close to” or “around”. It’s often used to indicate an estimated or rough amount or time. Here are some examples of how to use “approximately” in a sentence:

• The concert will start at approximately 7:30 pm.
• The package should arrive in approximately three to five business days.
• There are approximately 7.9 billion people in the world.

As you can see from these examples, “approximately” is used to convey an estimated amount or time. It’s important to note that “approximately” should not be used when an exact amount or time is known.

How To Use “Circa” In A Sentence

“Circa” is a Latin word that means “around” or “approximately”. It’s often used to indicate an approximate date or time period. Here are some examples of how to use “circa” in a sentence:

• The painting was created circa 1500.
• The building was constructed circa the early 1900s.
• The manuscript was written circa the 12th century.

As you can see from these examples, “circa” is used to convey an approximate date or time period. It’s important to note that “circa” should only be used when the exact date or time period is unknown but can be estimated.

More Examples Of Approximately & Circa Used In Sentences

In this section, we will provide you with more examples of how to use the words “approximately” and “circa” in sentences. These examples will help you to have a better understanding of how to use these words correctly in your writing.

Examples Of Using Approximately In A Sentence

• The trip will take approximately three hours.
• The dress costs approximately $200.
• The building is approximately 50 years old.
• The population of the city is approximately 500,000.
• The plane will land in approximately 30 minutes.
• The project will be completed in approximately two weeks.
• The book has approximately 300 pages.
• The temperature outside is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The concert will start at approximately 8:00 PM.
• The distance between the two cities is approximately 200 miles.

As you can see from these examples, “approximately” is used to indicate an estimated or rough amount or time.

Examples Of Using Circa In A Sentence

• The building was built circa 1900.
• The painting was created circa 1600.
• The manuscript was written circa the 14th century.
• The statue was made circa 500 BC.
• The event took place circa 1970.
• The document was signed circa 1789.
• The book was published circa 1920.
• The artifact was discovered circa 1000 AD.
• The castle was constructed circa the 12th century.
• The poem was written circa 1800.

“Circa” is used to indicate an approximate date or time period. It is often used in historical or archeological contexts, but can also be used in other contexts where an approximate date or time period is relevant.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “approximately” and “circa”, many people make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between these two words that should be understood in order to use them correctly.

Highlighting Common Mistakes

One common mistake is using “circa” when referring to an approximate time or date. The word “circa” should only be used when referring to an estimated time or date that is not exact, but known to be within a certain range. For example, “The painting was created circa 1900.”

Another mistake is using “approximately” when referring to an exact time or date. “Approximately” should only be used when referring to an estimated time or date that is close to the actual time or date, but not exact. For example, “The meeting will start at approximately 2:00 pm.”

Tips For Avoiding Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to understand the specific meanings of each word and use them accordingly. Here are some tips:

• Use “circa” when referring to an estimated time or date that is not exact, but known to be within a certain range.
• Use “approximately” when referring to an estimated time or date that is close to the actual time or date, but not exact.
• If you are unsure of the exact time or date, use “circa” instead of “approximately”.
• If you are referring to an exact time or date, do not use “circa”.

By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and use these words correctly in your writing.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “approximately” and “circa,” context is key. Both words are used to indicate an estimated or approximate time, quantity, or measurement, but the choice between them can depend on the specific context in which they are used.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between approximately and circa might change:

Context	Example	Choice Between Approximately and Circa
Historical Dates	The Great Wall of China was built approximately 2,000 years ago.	Approximately is more commonly used in this context.
Antique Appraisals	This vase was made circa 1890.	Circa is often used in the context of antique appraisals.
Scientific Measurements	The temperature in the lab was approximately 25 degrees Celsius.	Approximately is frequently used in scientific contexts.
Artistic Movements	The Impressionist movement began circa the late 19th century.	Circa is commonly used when referring to artistic movements or periods.

As you can see, the choice between approximately and circa can vary depending on the context in which they are used. It’s important to consider the specific context and choose the word that best fits the situation.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of “approximately” and “circa” follows certain rules, there are exceptions where these rules might not apply. Below are some cases where the usage of these terms might differ:

1. Historical Dates

When referring to historical dates, the use of “circa” is more common than “approximately.” This is because historical events often have an estimated date rather than an exact one. For example, “The Great Wall of China was built circa 220 BC.”

2. Personal Interpretation

Depending on the context, personal interpretation can sometimes affect the usage of “approximately” and “circa.” For instance, if a person is estimating the age of a tree, they might use “approximately” if they are not sure of the exact age. However, if they are confident that the tree is at least 100 years old, they might use “circa” instead.

3. Legal Documents

In legal documents, the use of “approximately” is more common than “circa.” This is because legal documents require exactness and precision. For example, “The contract will expire approximately three years from the date of signing.”

4. Scientific Measurements

When referring to scientific measurements, the use of “approximately” is more common than “circa.” This is because scientific measurements require accuracy and precision. For example, “The weight of the object is approximately 5 grams.”

5. Regional Differences

Regional differences can also affect the usage of “approximately” and “circa.” For example, in British English, the use of “circa” is more common than “approximately.” In American English, the usage of “approximately” is more common than “circa.”

It is important to note that while these exceptions exist, they are not exhaustive. The usage of “approximately” and “circa” can vary depending on the context and the writer’s preference. However, understanding these exceptions can help writers use these terms more effectively in their writing.

Practice Exercises

Improving your understanding and use of approximately and circa can be achieved through practice exercises. Here are some examples:

Exercise 1

Fill in the blanks with either approximately or circa:

1. The building was constructed __________ 1920.
2. __________ 50 people attended the conference.
3. The distance from New York to Los Angeles is __________ 2,800 miles.
4. The temperature outside is __________ 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Answer Key:

1. The building was constructed circa 1920.
2. Approximately 50 people attended the conference.
3. The distance from New York to Los Angeles is approximately 2,800 miles.
4. The temperature outside is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using either approximately or circa to convey the meaning:

• Approximately:
• The __________ number of people at the concert was 10,000.
• The package weighs __________ 2 pounds.
• The flight will take __________ 3 hours.
• Circa:
• The statue was carved __________ 500 BC.
• The manuscript was written __________ 1600.
• The artist was born __________ 1900.

Answer Key:

• Approximately:
• The approximate number of people at the concert was 10,000.
• The package weighs approximately 2 pounds.
• The flight will take approximately 3 hours.
• Circa:
• The statue was carved circa 500 BC.
• The manuscript was written circa 1600.
• The artist was born circa 1900.

Conclusion

After exploring the nuances between the terms “approximately” and “circa,” it is clear that they are not interchangeable. While both indicate an estimated time or quantity, “circa” specifically refers to a time period in history, while “approximately” can refer to any estimation of time or quantity.

It is important to use the correct term in order to convey accurate information and avoid confusion. Additionally, paying attention to these small details can greatly enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

Key Takeaways

• “Circa” refers specifically to a time period in history, while “approximately” can refer to any estimation of time or quantity.
• Using the correct term can greatly enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, you can improve your writing skills and effectively communicate your message to your audience. Remember to always pay attention to the details and strive for accuracy in your writing.