a.C.
/a.van.tiˈkris.to/
In Italian, 'bc' is expressed as a.C.
Meaning: before Christ (adv)
How does it change in a sentence?
The abbreviation a.C. is used as an adverbial phrase following a date or era.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /a.van.tiˈkris.to/. It consists of 5 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable.
Did you know?
- While a.C. stands for avanti Cristo, the word avanti usually means 'forward' or 'ahead'. In this specific chronological context, it functions as 'before'.
- In Italian typography, the periods in the abbreviation a.C. are mandatory. Writing 'aC' without the dots is considered an orthographic error in formal and academic Italian.
- While a.C. is the standard, some older or highly specific academic texts may use the term ante Christum, a Latin phrase that remains recognizable in Italian scholarly circles.
Examples in context
- L'imperatore romano Augusto è nato nel 63 a.C. (Avanti Cristo).The Roman emperor Augustus was born in 63 BC.
- Questo monumento risale al 50 a.C.This monument dates back to 50 BC.
- La guerra iniziò nel 300 a.C.The war began in 300 BC.
- Molte città sono state fondate prima del 100 a.C.Many cities were founded before 100 BC.
Example conversation
Giulia and Alessandro are studying history together.
- GiuliaQuando è nata questa civiltà, Alessandro?When was this civilization born, Alessandro?
- AlessandroCredo che sia stata fondata nel 2000 a.C.I believe it was founded in 2000 BC.
- GiuliaÈ davvero molto antica!It is really very ancient!
- AlessandroSì, è un periodo affascinante.Yes, it is a fascinating period.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bc” translations and entries a.C., CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
