Legal Definitions - C.

The abbreviation "C." can stand for two distinct legal or historical concepts:

• 1. Circa

  When "c." (or sometimes "ca.") is used, it stands for the Latin word circa, meaning "approximately" or "around." It is used to indicate that a date or time is not precise but is an estimation, often because the exact information is unknown or uncertain.

  • Example 1: Historical Event

    Archaeologists determined that the ancient pottery shards found at the site dated to c. 800 BC.

    Explanation: This indicates that while the exact year the pottery was created is not known, experts estimate its origin to be around 800 BC, based on various dating methods.

  • Example 2: Artistic Creation

    The art historian attributed the unsigned painting to a Dutch master, dating its creation to c. 1650.

    Explanation: Here, "c." signifies that the precise year the painting was completed is not documented, but based on style, materials, and historical context, it is estimated to have been painted around the year 1650.

  • Example 3: Future Estimation

    The new community center is projected to open c. late next year, pending final construction and inspections.

    Explanation: In this context, "c." is used to convey an estimated timeframe for the opening, acknowledging that the exact date is not yet firm and could be subject to change.

• 2. Copyright

  When "C." (often enclosed in a circle: ©) is used, it refers to copyright. Copyright is a legal right granted to the creator of original works of authorship, such as literary, dramatic, musical, and certain other intellectual works. This right gives the creator exclusive control over how their work is reproduced, distributed, performed, displayed, or adapted.

  • Example 1: Published Book

    The first page of the new cookbook prominently displayed "© 2023 Chef Antoine Dubois."

    Explanation: This notice indicates that Chef Antoine Dubois holds the copyright for the cookbook published in 2023, meaning he has the exclusive legal right to control its reproduction, distribution, and other uses.

  • Example 2: Website Content

    At the bottom of a company's webpage, the text read: "Copyright © 2024 Global Innovations Inc. All rights reserved."

    Explanation: This statement signifies that Global Innovations Inc. owns the copyright to the content on their website (text, images, design), legally protecting it from unauthorized copying or use by others.

  • Example 3: Musical Composition

    A songwriter registered her latest song with the U.S. Copyright Office, ensuring that her composition was protected by "© [Songwriter's Name]."

    Explanation: By registering her work and using the copyright symbol, the songwriter establishes her exclusive legal rights to her musical composition, preventing others from reproducing, performing, or adapting it without her permission.