NB Meaning: What Does the Term “NB” Stand For?

Last updated on September 9, 2024 by Emma Grace

The acronym “NB” is not used as much anymore as it used to be in the history of literature. Chances are if you have signed any kind of legal documents lately or agreed to any License Agreements on the internet, this is most likely where you encountered the acronym. If you were left wondering what the meaning of this acronym could be, then you have arrived at the right page. 

NB Meaning and Origin

Key Takeaways

  • “NB” stands for “Nota Bene,” which is a Latin phrase meaning “note well.”
  • It is used to draw attention to something important or to emphasize a particular point in written texts. It’s similar to saying “please note” or “take notice.”
NB Meaning
NB Meaning – Created by 7ESL

What Does NB Stand for?

NB is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase “nota bene“, which translates to “note well” in English. This phrase is commonly used in writing to draw attention to a particular point or detail that the writer wants the reader to pay special attention to. A friendly reminder, NB can be a valuable tool to emphasize crucial information without being overbearing.

Using NB can help writers guide their readers through a piece of writing by highlighting significant aspects they should be aware of while reading. For instance, if there is an essential deadline inside an article or a critical condition that must be met, utilizing NB can assist the reader in retaining such information.

Here are a few examples of NB usage in sentences:

  • NB: The registration for the event closes on July 15.
  • NB: This formula is only applicable to certain conditions.
  • NB: Don’t forget to read the fine print before signing.

Origin of NB

The acronym comes from the term itself and the term “nota bene” has been derived from two older Latin words. The first is the word “notre” meaning “to note”. The second is the word “bene” meaning “well.” The phrase is used widely in written works throughout the history of literature and is especially used in legal documents. Areas of importance are highlighted with this acronym to draw attention to it and to make sure people read what is contained there.

You may see the term appear on the internet in License Agreements and other legal information. You may also see it used by people when they want to draw your attention to something important as a sidenote or addition to their original posts.

Related Terms to Nota Bene

Dignum Memoria

Dignum Memoria (DM) is another Latin abbreviation that translates to “worthy of memory.” It is used to emphasize something significant or worth remembering. While not as common as Nota Bene, it may still be encountered in specific contexts like historical texts and academic papers.

Notate Bene

Notate Bene represents a variation of the phrase “nota bene.” This alternate version also means “note well” and acts as an imperative command. It originates from the Latin verb “notare,” which signifies “to note.” Both Nota Bene (N.B.) and Notate Bene may be used interchangeably in contexts where special attention is required.

Medieval Equivalents

In medieval manuscripts, there were several symbols and marks utilized to draw attention to essential information. One such symbol was the paraph mark (¶), used to denote crucial points or new sections. Another sign, the manicule, finger-pointing symbol, came into use in later medieval manuscripts. Manicules were typically drawn by scribes to highlight important notes in the margin.

Manicule

The manicule (☞) is a hand-drawn symbol resembling a small hand with a pointing index finger. Scribes and readers employed it in the margins of medieval manuscripts to emphasize critical passages. Though not explicitly a Latin abbreviation, the manicule serves a similar purpose as Nota Bene by drawing attention to vital details. Its use has decreased in modern times, but it remains a fascinating historical symbol.

NB Meaning in Conversations

A text message exchange between two friends.

  • Friend 1: Did you get the last part of the project done yet?
  • Friend 2 Not yet! I have been swamped with homework every night this week. I am going to finish it up this weekend.
  • Friend 1: Okay! Sounds good! NB: the professor moved the due date back to Tuesday instead of Monday since he will not be in class on Monday.
  • Friend 2: Noted!

An online conversation between two game players.

  • Player 1: I am having so much trouble beating this last boss.
  • Player 2: You have to make sure you use the diamond sword.
  • Player 1: I am using the diamond sword, but when I hit him it barely does any damage.
  • Player 2: NB: you have to find his “soft spots” so aim for his head and you will take him down in no time.
  • Player 1: Noted! Thank you!

NB Terminology

Other Ways to Say “NB”

There are a few other phrases that you could use to represent the phrase that this acronym is used for. Some of the other ways you could say “note well” include:

  • take notice
  • this is important
  • note

Other Meanings

There are many other meanings of this acronym suggested, so many that it would be nearly impossible to mention all of them here and some are simply made up for the amusement of others. However, some of the phrases that this acronym can also represent are “not bad,” “non-binary,” “nose breather,” “not bothered,” and “nervous breakdown.”

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