Op Cit vs Supra: A Comprehensive Comparison
When it comes to legal citation, the terms “op cit” and “supra” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and applications. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of these two terms, providing you with a detailed and multi-dimensional introduction.
What is Op Cit?
“Op cit” is an abbreviation for “opus citatum,” which translates to “the work cited.” It is a reference to a source that has already been mentioned in the text. When you use “op cit” in your writing, you are simply referring back to a source that has been discussed earlier in the document.
For example, if you mentioned a case in your text and then want to refer to it again without repeating the full citation, you would use “op cit.” This helps to keep your writing concise and avoids unnecessary repetition.
What is Supra?
“Supra” is an abbreviation for “superior,” and it is used to refer to a source that has been cited earlier in the same page or section of a document. Unlike “op cit,” which can be used to refer to any source mentioned earlier in the text, “supra” is limited to sources cited on the same page or section.
For instance, if you mentioned a case in the first paragraph of your text and then want to refer to it again in the second paragraph, you would use “supra.” This helps to clarify that you are referring to the same source mentioned earlier in the same section.
Difference Between Op Cit and Supra
While both “op cit” and “supra” are used to refer to previously cited sources, there are some key differences between the two.
| Op Cit | Supra |
|---|---|
| Can refer to any source mentioned earlier in the text. | Can only refer to a source cited on the same page or section. |
| Used when the full citation is not necessary. | Used when the full citation is not necessary and the source is cited on the same page or section. |
| Can be used in any legal document. | Is typically used in legal documents that are divided into sections or pages. |
As you can see from the table, the main difference between “op cit” and “supra” lies in their scope and applicability. “Op cit” is more flexible and can be used to refer to any source mentioned earlier in the text, while “supra” is limited to sources cited on the same page or section.
When to Use Op Cit and Supra
Now that we understand the difference between “op cit” and “supra,” let’s discuss when to use each term.
Use “op cit” when:
- You want to refer to a source that has been mentioned earlier in the text.
- The full citation is not necessary for clarity.
- You are writing a document that does not have sections or pages.
Use “supra” when:
- You want to refer to a source that has been cited earlier on the same page or section.
- The full citation is not necessary for clarity.
- You are writing a document that is divided into sections or pages.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your legal citations are accurate and consistent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “op cit” and “supra” are two important terms in legal citation. While they both serve the purpose of referring to previously cited sources, they have distinct meanings and applications. By understanding the difference between the two and when to use each term, you can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your legal writing.
