# BCE

CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bce
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Before Common Era. A way to count years before the year 1. Used instead of BC in history and science.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Before Common Era. Designating the era before the year 1 in the Gregorian calendar. Used as a secular alternative to BC (Before Christ), typically following the year number.

## Examples

- The Great Pyramid was built around 2560 BCE.
- Historians often use BCE to maintain a neutral tone when discussing ancient civilizations that were not Christian.
- While the transition from BC to BCE has become standard in academic publishing, the numerical values remain identical, ensuring that chronological data remains consistent across different naming conventions.

## Pitfalls

- Not "In the BCE 500" but "In 500 BCE" — BCE must follow the year number, whereas 'In the' is unnecessary when providing a specific date.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed immediately after the year number; often written in small capitals in formal typesetting.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.