Definition

Noun: An abbreviation for the Latin phrase "nota bene," meaning "note well" or "take special notice." It is used to direct a reader's attention to an important or critical piece of information.

Usage

The abbreviation "n.b." (or "NB") is used in written text, often within parentheses or as a separate note, to introduce a remark that the writer wants the reader to observe carefully. It is typically placed before the important point.

Examples

• The meeting is scheduled for 3 PM.
• All submissions are due by Friday.
• His book was filled with pencilled in the margins, highlighting key passages.

Advanced Usage

• Styling: It can be written in lowercase ("n.b.") or uppercase ("NB" or "N.B."), with or without periods. The uppercase form without periods ("NB") is common in modern English.
• Position: It can function as a standalone label for a note or be integrated into a sentence to emphasize a following clause.

Variants and Related Words

• Nota bene: The full Latin phrase from which "n.b." is abbreviated.
• Note: A more common English word with a similar function of drawing attention.
• Attention: The general concept of focused notice.

Synonyms

• Note well
• Take note
• Observe
• Mark this

Important Note

"n.b." is a specific textual marker. It is not used in spoken language; in speech, one would say "note that," "please note," or "it's important to note."

Noun

1. a Latin phrase (or its abbreviation) used to indicate that special attention should be paid to something
   • the margins of his book were generously supplied with pencilled NBs