Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Using exactly the same words; word-for-word: Describes something that is repeated or reproduced in precisely the same words as the original source, without any changes or omissions.
   • Corresponding to the original text or speech: Indicates a direct, literal correspondence to the source material.

2. Adverb:

   • In exactly the same words; word for word: Describes the manner of repeating, quoting, or reporting something by using the precise words of the original.

Usage

• The word verbatim is used to emphasize strict, literal accuracy in repeating or recording language.
• As an adjective, it typically comes before a noun (e.g., a transcript).
• As an adverb, it usually follows the verb it modifies (e.g., to report something ).

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The court requires a verbatim record of the proceedings.
  • She provided a verbatim account of the phone conversation to her lawyer.
• Adverb:
  • The journalist quoted the politician's statement verbatim in her article.
  • I can't recall the poem verbatim, but I remember its general theme.

Advanced Usage

• "Verbatim et literatim": A Latin phrase meaning "word for word and letter for letter," sometimes used in legal or scholarly contexts to denote an even more precise, letter-perfect copy.
  • The medieval manuscript was copied verbatim et literatim by the scribe.
• Used to describe the highest standard of accuracy in transcription, translation, or quotation.

Variants and Related Words

• Verbatimism (n): The practice or principle of using exactly the same words; strict adherence to the original wording.
  • His verbatimism in translation sometimes makes the text sound unnatural.
• Verbatim can function as a noun in informal contexts, referring to a word-for-word report or transcript.
  • I need a verbatim of that meeting.

Synonyms

• Word-for-word: Corresponding exactly to the original words.
• Literal: Following the exact words of the original; not figurative or paraphrased.
• Direct: (Of a quotation) taken from the source without alteration.

Antonyms

• Paraphrased: Expressed in different words to achieve clarity or brevity.
• Summary: A brief statement of the main points, not the exact words.
• Gist: The general meaning without the specific wording.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To take something down verbatim: To write down exactly what is said.
  • The secretary took the dictation down verbatim.
• A verbatim quote/report/transcript: A quote, report, or transcript that matches the original words exactly.
  • The newspaper published a verbatim transcript of the interview.

Adjective

1. in precisely the same words used by a writer or speaker
   • a direct quotation
   • repeated their dialog verbatim

Adverb

1. using exactly the same words
   • he repeated her remarks verbatim