Definition
Et al. is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase et alii, which means “and others.” This term is frequently used in academic writing to refer to multiple authors of a scholarly work when citing references. The abbreviation helps maintain readability and brevity in text, especially in lengthy documents or papers with extensive references.
Examples
-
Journal Article Citation:
- Original: “Smith, Johnson, Williams, Brown, and Jones (2020) conducted a comprehensive study on…”
- Using Et al.: “Smith et al. (2020) conducted a comprehensive study on…”
-
Book Citation:
- Original: “Doe, Baker, Green, and White (2018).”
- Using Et al.: “Doe et al. (2018).”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it acceptable to use et al. in all citation styles?
Depending on the citation style, the use of et al. might differ. In APA, MLA, and Chicago styles, et al. is common for references with multiple authors. It’s important to check the specific guidelines for the required citation style.
How many authors must a citation have before using “et al.”?
Typically, et al. is used when a cited work has three or more authors. This can vary depending on the specific citation guidelines being followed.
Can et al. be used for both in-text citations and reference lists?
Yes, in-text citations and reference lists both commonly use et al., but again, the exact rules depend on the citation style being used.
Should there be a period after ‘al’ in ’et al.’?
Yes, in the abbreviation et al., there should be a period after ‘al’ to denote that it is an abbreviation.
Is “et al.” italicized?
No, et al. is not typically italicized unless specified by the style guide being followed.
- ibid.: Short for the Latin “ibidem,” meaning “in the same place.” Used in citations to refer to a source mentioned immediately before.
- op. cit.: Abbreviation of the Latin “opus citatum,” meaning “the work cited.” Used in academic referencing.
- cf.: Short for the Latin “confer,” meaning “compare.” Used to refer to other material for comparison.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association” by American Psychological Association
- “MLA Handbook” by The Modern Language Association of America
- “The Chicago Manual of Style” by The University of Chicago Press Editorial Staff
Fundamentals of Et Al.: Academic Writing Basics Quiz
### What does the term "et al." stand for?
- [ ] Et alia luna
- [x] Et alii
- [ ] Et alta
- [ ] Et alura
> **Explanation:** The term "et al." is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase "et alii," which translates to "and others." It is used in academic writing to refer to multiple authors without listing all their names.
### Can "et al." be used when referring to a source with two authors?
- [ ] Yes, it is applicable.
- [x] No, it is typically used for three or more authors.
- [ ] Sometimes, depending on the verbal context.
- [ ] Only when authors agree to abbreviation.
> **Explanation:** The abbreviation "et al." is typically used when a source has three or more authors. For a source with two authors, both names should be listed.
### In which part of a paper is "et al." commonly used?
- [x] In-text citations and reference lists
- [ ] Only in the title
- [ ] Only in the abstract
- [ ] In appendices
> **Explanation:** "Et al." is commonly used in academic writing within in-text citations and the reference list to indicate multiple authors.
### Is it mandatory to put a period after 'al' in 'et al.'?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
> **Explanation:** It is mandatory to put a period after 'al' in 'et al.' as it indicates the abbreviation of the term "alii."
### Should et al. be italicized in citations?
- [ ] Yes, always
- [x] No, typically not
- [ ] Only in APA style
- [ ] Only in Chicago style
> **Explanation:** "Et al." is not typically italicized unless specified by a particular citation style guide.
### What is the purpose of using "et al." in academic writing?
- [ ] To extend reading time
- [ ] To give credits to previously unnamed authors
- [x] To shorten references with multiple authors
- [ ] To obscure the source details
> **Explanation:** The purpose of using "et al." is to shorten references when citing works with multiple authors, making the text more readable and concise.
### Which Latin term is used to mean "in the same place" in citations?
- [x] ibid.
- [ ] op. cit.
- [ ] cf.
- [ ] supra
> **Explanation:** The term "ibid.," short for the Latin “ibidem,” is used in citations to mean "in the same place," referring to a source previously mentioned.
### How is "et al." spelled in a reference list when citing APA style?
- [ ] Et alii
- [x] Et al.
- [ ] Et Alt.
- [ ] E.T. al.
> **Explanation:** In APA style, "et al." is spelled as "et al." in a reference list, reflecting the standards of the abbreviation.
### What other referencing term means "the work cited"?
- [ ] ibid.
- [x] op. cit.
- [ ] cf.
- [ ] supra
> **Explanation:** The term "op. cit.," short for the Latin “opus citatum,” means "the work cited" and is used in academic references.
### Which citation style uses "et al." for references?
- [x] APA
- [x] MLA
- [x] Chicago
- [ ] Only Harvard
> **Explanation:** The use of "et al." is prevalent in various citation styles, including APA, MLA, and Chicago, which all employ "et al." for works featuring multiple authors.
Thank you for diving into the world of academic writing with this guide on “et al.” and our engaging quiz on proper usage in citations. Keep pursuing knowledge and honing your scholarly skills!
