Definition

Adverb: - That is to say; namely; specifically: Used to introduce a more specific or detailed explanation, clarification, or list of items that follow from a general statement. It is a formal term, often abbreviated as "viz."

Usage

• Introducing a List or Clarification: "Videlicet" is used after a general statement to introduce the specific items, examples, or details that constitute it. It signals that what follows is an explicit enumeration or explanation.
• Formal and Legal Contexts: This word is most commonly found in formal, academic, or legal writing. It is rarely used in everyday spoken English.

Examples

• The committee selected three candidates, videlicet: Ms. Jones, Dr. Smith, and Professor Lee.
• The main ingredients are simple, videlicet flour, water, salt, and yeast.
• He cited several authorities, videlicet Blackstone, Coke, and Hale.

Advanced Usage

• Punctuation with "Videlicet": It is typically followed by a colon (:) when introducing a list. It can also be followed by a comma when integrating the specifics into the flow of the sentence.
  • The treaty applies to the founding members, videlicet, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
• In Parenthetical Explanations: It can be used within parentheses to provide a clarifying example.
  • The most common noble gases (videlicet, helium and neon) are used in lighting.

Variants and Related Words

• Viz.: The standard abbreviation for "videlicet." It is pronounced "namely" or "that is" and is used identically in writing.
  • Please bring the necessary tools (viz., a hammer, nails, and a saw).
• Scilicet: Another formal adverb meaning "namely" or "to wit," often abbreviated as "sc." or "ss." It is used similarly but is even rarer than "videlicet."

Synonyms

• Namely
• That is to say
• To wit
• Specifically
• I.e. (id est): Note that "i.e." means "that is" and is used for rephrasing or clarification, while "videlicet/viz." is used to introduce a specific list or example.

Notes on Usage

• Formality: "Videlicet" and its abbreviation "viz." are considered very formal. In most modern writing, "namely," "specifically," or "that is" are preferred for clarity and accessibility.
• Misconception: It is not interchangeable with "e.g." ("for example"). "Videlicet/viz." introduces an exhaustive or defining list, not just illustrative examples.
  • Correct: We need three colors, viz., red, blue, and yellow. (These are the only colors needed.)
  • Incorrect (for this meaning): We need bright colors, viz., red and blue. (Use "e.g." here if red and blue are just examples, not the complete list.)

Adverb

1. as follows