Definition

Noun: A Latin phrase (or its abbreviation) used to direct a reader's attention to a specific, important piece of information. It signals that the following note or point is particularly worthy of notice.

Usage

"Nota bene" (often abbreviated as NB) is used in written text to introduce a critical side note or a crucial piece of information that the reader must not overlook. It is typically placed before the important statement. * It is a formal, scholarly term commonly found in academic papers, legal documents, technical manuals, and annotated texts. * The abbreviation NB is far more common in modern English usage than the full Latin phrase.

Examples

• The contract states the payment terms. NB: Late payments will incur a 5% fee. (Here, 'NB' highlights a critical consequence.)
• The author makes a key argument on page 42. Nota bene: This contradicts the earlier hypothesis presented in chapter one. (The full phrase draws scholarly attention to a contradiction.)
• Please review the safety procedures. NB: The main power switch must be turned off before inspection. (The abbreviation emphasizes a vital safety step.)

Advanced Usage

• Stylistic Use: In very formal or traditional writing, such as in classical scholarship or certain legal contexts, using the full phrase can convey a heightened sense of importance or gravitas compared to the more standard abbreviation.
• Punctuation: It is conventionally followed by a colon (:) when introducing the note.

Variants and Related Words

• NB (abbreviation): The standard abbreviated form of .
• Note well: A direct English translation of the Latin phrase, sometimes used for clarity in less formal contexts.

Synonyms

• Note: (A less formal and more common directive to pay attention.)
• Attention: (e.g., "Attention: This door must remain locked.")
• Important: (e.g., "Important: Read the instructions first.")
• Warning: (Implies a note about danger or potential problems.)
• Caution: (Similar to warning, often used for safety.)

Related Idioms or Phrases

• Take note: An informal phrasal verb meaning to observe and remember something important.
  • Take note of the deadline for submissions.
• Heads-up: A very informal noun meaning an advance warning or notice.
  • Just a heads-up, the meeting time has changed.

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