Circa

/ˈsɜːrkə/
C1

Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.

Listen pronunciation

prepositionApproximately, especially when giving a date.

Extra definitions

preposition; adverbApproximately at a date.

preposition; adverbAround a time.

preposition; adverbBefore an approximate date.

The temple was built circa 500 BCE.
The painting dates from circa 1820.
The map shows Europe circa 1500.
Synonyms:
None
Antonyms:
None

Learned borrowing from Latin circā.

“Political talent scouts have called South Dakota's John Thune "the Republican Obama" because his low profile, youth and presidential bearing recall the unknown Illinois Democrat circa January 2007.” — 2011 January 27, Michael Crowley, “Decision Time for Senator John Thune”, in TIME, archived from the original on 10 May 2011:
CEFR Practice Quiz
The temple was built ____ 500 BCE.

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