Definition

1. Verb (Transitive):
   • (Printing/Editing) To instruct that a word, phrase, or mark previously indicated for deletion or alteration should remain as originally written. This is typically done by writing the word "stet" in the margin and underlining the text to be kept.
   • (Printing/Editing) To cancel a previous correction, deletion, or editorial mark.

Usage

• Imperative Form: The word "stet" is most commonly used as a written instruction or command on a manuscript or proof. It tells the typesetter or editor to ignore a previous change mark.
• Standard Verb Form: It can also be used in its standard verb forms (e.g., , ) to describe the action.
• Context: This term is highly specialized and is primarily used in the fields of publishing, editing, proofreading, and printing.

Examples

• As an imperative instruction on a proof:
  • The editor had crossed out the sentence, but the author wrote "stet" in the margin to keep it.
  • Please stet the paragraph I marked for deletion; I've changed my mind.
• Using standard verb forms:
  • After reconsidering, she stetted the original wording.
  • I am stetting my initial choice of adjective.

Advanced Usage

• "To let it stand": This is the literal meaning of "stet" from Latin. It is the conceptual instruction behind the word.
  • The Latin root means "let it stand," which is exactly what the proofreader does when they write "stet."

Variants and Related Words

• Stet (noun): The word "stet" itself can function as a noun referring to the instruction mark.
  • She put a stet next to the revised phrase.
• Dele: A related proofreading mark (often written as ℔) meaning "delete."
• Caret (^): A proofreading mark indicating an insertion.

Synonyms

• Retain: To continue to use or keep.
• Restore: To bring back the original text.
• Cancel (a correction): To nullify a previous change instruction.

Antonyms

• Delete: To remove or cross out.
• Correct: To alter text to fix an error.

Verb

1. printing: direct that a matter marked for omission or correction is to be retained (used in the imperative)
2. printing: cancel, as of a correction or deletion