Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Before the Christian era: Used following dates to indicate they occurred prior to the traditionally calculated year of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Usage

• The abbreviation "BC" is placed after a numerical year.
• It is used in historical and archaeological contexts to date events.
• It is the counterpart to "AD" (, meaning "in the year of our Lord").

Examples

• Adverb:
  • The pyramids of Giza were constructed around 2560 before Christ.
  • Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC.
  • This artifact dates from the 5th century before Christ.

Advanced Usage

• "BCE" (Before Common Era): A modern, secular alternative with the same chronological meaning as "BC."
  • The war took place in 331 BCE.

Variants and Related Words

• BC: The standard abbreviation for "before Christ."
• BCE: Abbreviation for "Before Common Era."

Synonyms

• BCE (Before Common Era): A synonym in terms of chronological placement.

Notes on Usage

• The system using BC/AD was developed in the 6th century and is now used globally as a common chronological framework.
• There is no year zero in this system; the year 1 BC is immediately followed by AD 1.
• When writing, "BC" is typically written in uppercase letters without periods.

Adverb

1. before the Christian era; used following dates before the supposed year Christ was born
   • in 200 BC