How to Say “Date” in MLA

When writing an essay or research paper according to the guidelines of the Modern Language Association (MLA), it is essential to use proper terminology and language conventions. One aspect you may come across is the inclusion of dates within your text. In this guide, we will explore how to say “date” in MLA, covering both formal and informal ways to refer to this important element. While regional variations exist, we will focus primarily on standard usage. Read on to discover valuable tips, examples, and everything you need to know about referencing dates in MLA style.

Formal Ways to Say “Date” in MLA

When addressing dates formally in an MLA paper, it is important to use appropriate language that reflects the academic nature of your writing. Here are a few formal ways to refer to dates:

1. Date: This is the most straightforward and concise way to say “date” in an MLA paper. For example, “According to Smith’s research, the event took place on the specified date.”
2. Specific date: Depending on the context, you may need to mention a specific date. For instance, “On October 26th, the anniversary of the event was commemorated.”
3. Given date: In certain instances, when referring to a date mentioned earlier in your paper, you can use the term “given date.” For instance, “The author emphasizes the significance of the given date as a turning point in history.”
4. Designated date: This term is ideal for situations where a specific date has been assigned or designated for a particular purpose. For example, “The designated date for submission of the research paper is December 10th.”

Informal Ways to Say “Date” in MLA

While formal expressions are more appropriate for scholarly writing, you may occasionally encounter the need to use an informal tone. Here are some informal ways to refer to dates in an MLA paper:

1. Day: This casual term can be used when referring to a specific day, such as “On that day, the author made a groundbreaking statement.”
2. When: In less formal contexts, you may simply use the word “when” to indicate a date. For instance, “He uttered those words in 1945 when the war ended.”
3. Back then: This phrase is useful when discussing a date in the past, adding a touch of informality. For example, “Back then, people celebrated this day with great fervor.”
4. At that time: A slightly more formal alternative to “back then,” this term can be used interchangeably when discussing past dates. For example, “At that time, the event carried great importance.”

Tips for Referring to Dates in MLA

Using the appropriate terminology when referring to dates in an MLA paper is crucial for clarity and precision. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Consistency: Ensure consistency in how you refer to dates throughout your paper. Stick to one style, whether formal or informal, to avoid confusion.
• Date format: MLA conventions recommend using the day, month (abbreviated where necessary), and year format – e.g., “26 Oct. 2022.”
• Year placement: Generally, the year is placed after the month and day, separated by a comma. For example, “May 2, 2010.” However, in certain instances, such as citing historical events or referring to specific eras, the year may be placed first.
• Capitalization: In MLA style, capitalize the names of months and days in the text, but not in the list of works cited.
• Contextual relevance: Ensure that the date references you make are relevant to your paper’s content and support your arguments or statements effectively.

Examples

To illustrate the usage of formal and informal ways of referring to dates in MLA, here are some examples:

• “The date of the event remains a topic of debate among historians.”
• “The historical document was published on the specific date of August 1st, 1776.”
• “The author emphasizes the importance of the given date as a turning point in history.”
• “The designated date for submission of the assignment is July 10th, 2022.”
• “When the new millennium began, significant changes were witnessed worldwide.”
• “Back then, people were unaware of the implications of that historic day.”
• “At that time, celebrations were held to mark the end of the war.”

In conclusion, mastering the terminology and conventions related to dates in MLA style is crucial for presenting scholarly work accurately. Whether using formal or informal language, it is essential to maintain consistency and follow the recommended date format. By properly referring to dates, you enhance the clarity and understanding of your arguments while adhering to the established guidelines of the MLA style.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights on how to say “date” in MLA, giving you the necessary tools to write confidently in accordance with MLA conventions.