Viz. Abbreviation
“Viz.” is a written abbreviation used to introduce a more exact specification of what was just stated. Cambridge marks the form old-fashioned and gives “namely” as a modern synonym.
“Viz.” means “namely” or “that is to say” when introducing a more exact specification; Cambridge marks it old-fashioned.
Key details
Important caveats
Punctuation Boundary
The dictionary headword includes the abbreviation period; surrounding comma punctuation depends on sentence structure and style.
Further guidance
Meaning
Cambridge defines “viz.” as a written form used to give more detail or be more exact about a preceding statement.
Practical Application
Use “viz.” only when its old-fashioned/formal tone suits the document and you need to introduce a more exact specification. In most contemporary general prose, “namely” or a direct rewrite will be clearer.
Reader Check
Will the intended audience immediately understand “viz.”, and does the abbreviation add anything that “namely” or a colon would not communicate more plainly?
Register
Cambridge labels the expression old-fashioned, so plain “namely” is often clearer in modern prose.
Worked Example
Example: “The package contains three files, namely, the report, data table, and license” is clearer for many readers than using “viz.” in the same sentence.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Viz. — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Meaning and written form of viz.; marked old-fashioned and synonymous with namely