sic
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /sɪk/
KK: /sɪk/
adverb
Definition
This word is used to show that something quoted is exactly as it was originally written, even if it has mistakes or unusual spelling.
Example
The author wrote, "He is the best at his job, sic!" to emphasize the original wording.
Conversation
Did you see the message he sent?
Yeah, I noticed he wrote some words oddly, like he meant to sic them on purpose.
Right? It makes you wonder if he was trying to be funny or just didn't care.
Either way, I think it's kind of unique to keep it that way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
thus
so
therefore
Antonyms
unintentionally
incorrectly
falsely
transitive verb
Definition
To encourage or command someone or something to attack or pursue someone or something.
Example
The owner sicced his dog on the intruder to protect his home.
Tense Forms
Past: sicced
Past Participle: sicced
Conversation
Did you see how that dog just ran at the mailman?
Yeah! I think they might have sicked him on purpose.
That's pretty crazy; I wonder what the mailman did to deserve that.
Root Explanation
**Sic** → This word originates from Latin 'sic', meaning 'thus' or 'so'. It is used to indicate that something is quoted exactly as it appears, often in a way that may seem unusual or incorrect.
Memory Tip
Think of 'thus' in Latin to remember that 'sic' means to indicate something is quoted exactly as it is.
Visually Confused Words
saic
si