Op. cit.

Definition

'Op. cit.' is a Latin abbreviation for 'opus citatum,' which translates to 'the work cited.' It is used in academic writing and legal documents to refer back to a source that has already been mentioned, allowing for concise citations and avoiding repetition of full bibliographic details. This term is particularly significant in legal terminology as it streamlines references within lengthy documents, enhancing clarity and efficiency in legal discussions and writings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Op. cit.' is commonly used in legal writing to streamline the referencing of previously cited cases or statutes, making documents easier to read.
2. The use of 'op. cit.' helps prevent clutter in legal texts by reducing the need for full citations each time a source is referenced.
3. 'Op. cit.' should only be used when a work has been cited at least once prior; otherwise, it may confuse readers who have not seen the original citation.
4. Understanding how to use 'op. cit.' correctly is crucial for law students, as it forms part of the foundation for proper legal citation practices.
5. In legal contexts, using 'op. cit.' can demonstrate an author’s familiarity with their sources, showcasing thorough research and attention to detail.

Review Questions

• How does the use of 'op. cit.' enhance clarity in legal documents?
  • 'Op. cit.' enhances clarity in legal documents by allowing authors to reference previously cited sources without repeating full citation details. This streamlines the reading process, enabling legal professionals and scholars to follow arguments and references more easily. It ensures that documents remain concise while maintaining proper attribution to original works, thus improving overall comprehension and professionalism in legal writing.
• Compare 'op. cit.' with 'ibid.' in terms of their usage in legal writing.
  • 'Op. cit.' and 'ibid.' serve different purposes in legal writing, with 'op. cit.' referring back to a work that has already been cited earlier in the document, while 'ibid.' specifically refers to the last cited source without requiring further bibliographic information. Understanding these distinctions helps legal writers maintain clarity and avoid redundancy in their references. Both terms contribute to effective citation practices but apply differently based on the context of their usage.
• Evaluate the importance of mastering citation abbreviations like 'op. cit.' for law students entering the professional field.
  • Mastering citation abbreviations like 'op. cit.' is vital for law students as it equips them with essential skills for effective legal writing and research. In professional settings, attorneys must communicate complex ideas clearly and succinctly, where proper citation enhances credibility and demonstrates thorough research. Familiarity with these terms not only aids in producing polished legal documents but also fosters a professional image among peers and clients by reflecting attention to detail and adherence to academic standards.

Related terms

citations: 'Citations' are references to sources of information or ideas, providing credit to the original authors and allowing readers to locate the referenced materials.

ibid.:

'Ibid.' is another Latin term meaning 'in the same place,' used in citations to refer to a source that was cited immediately before, helping to avoid redundancy.

footnotes: 'Footnotes' are notes placed at the bottom of a page that provide additional information or citations related to the text, often used in legal documents and academic writing.