circa
word
Definition
'Circa' is a formal or academic word used before dates to show that something happened around that year, not exactly. It means 'about' or 'approximately.'
Usage & Nuances
'Circa' is mostly used in historical or academic contexts, before years (e.g., "circa 1800"). It is formal and rarely used in casual speech. Abbreviated as "c." in writing. Do not use before months or days.
Spanish: aproximadamente - hacia (fechas históricas)Portuguese (BR): cerca de - aproximadamente (datas históricas)Portuguese (PT): cerca de - aproximadamente (datas históricas)Chinese (Simplified): 约 - 大约（指年份）Chinese (Traditional): 約 - 大約（指年份）Hindi: लगभग - के आसपास (तारीख़/ वर्ष)Arabic: حوالي - تقريباً (للتواريخ)
Example Sentences
The city was built circa 1200.
basic
The painting is from circa 1500.
basic
This document was written circa 1850.
basic
Historians think the sculpture dates to circa 400 BCE.
natural
The house was restored to its original circa 1700 appearance.
natural
This map, created circa the late 17th century, shows the old city boundaries.
natural