The term “et al.” is in fact from the Latin “et alii” meaning “and others” and is a common abbreviation in academic and legal texts to show that the list of names is not complete and that there are other contributors or authors not named. It acts as a shortcut to recognize many authors or parties without listing each one separately, simplifying citations and references, particularly when they are numerous.
To use “et al.” correctly, you need to adhere to the rules of the particular citation style you are using, like APA, MLA, Chicago, and so on, as each has its own guidelines for when and how to use “et al.” In general, “et al.” is used by a commercial litigation attorney when citing a source with three or more authors or editors. For example, in APA style, only the name of the first author is mentioned followed by “et al.” in most of the in-text citations for works with three or more authors. For instance, a research by Smith, Johnson, and Lee would be cited as (Smith et al., 2023) in the text after the first citation if you are using APA 7th edition. On the other hand, MLA style uses “et al.” in the Works Cited list and in-text citations for works that have three or more authors, where only the first author is listed followed by “et al.”
It is also important to remember to be attentive to punctuation and style when using “et al.” Typically, “et” is not followed by a period, but “al.” is, indicating that “al.” is an abbreviation of “alii.” Additionally, the term is often italicized in a variety of citation styles since it is of Latin origin, but this may change.
“Et al.” is not used in the listing of authors in a bibliography or reference list which requires full names of authors; it is mostly used for in-text citations or footnotes. Furthermore, it is not appropriate to use it when referring to works with only two authors or parties, in which case both names are usually given. Learn what does et al mean.
Proper use of “et al.” is critical for academic integrity, enabling authors to assign the correct credit to the work of several contributors while retaining clarity and brevity in their writing. Be sure to consult the particular citation guidelines that apply to your work specifically to ensure correct usage.
How do you write et al in an email?
When using “et al.” in an email, especially in a professional or academic context, there are certain conventions that you should adhere to so as to make sure the message is clear and the formal tone is maintained. The term “et al.” is a Latin word meaning “and others” and is often used when referring to a group of individuals, usually authors of a scholarly article or report, without having to list all the people involved.
To use “et al.” correctly in an email, start by mentioning the name of the main individual and then use “et al.” for documents or works that were created by multiple people. For instance, when referencing a study by Dr. Jane Smith and her colleagues, you would write, “According to the study by Dr. Jane Smith et al., the findings suggest…”. This method suggests that although Dr. Smith is the lead author or primary contact, other contributors are also recognised without the necessity to name them all, making the reference shorter but still respectful.
Always remember to italicize “et al.” because it is a Latin phrase and this is the practice in many style guides, although the rule can differ based on the specific guidelines that you are following (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago style). But in the plain text of an email, where formatting may not be possible, it is okay to use “et al.” without italics.
In addition, when addressing a group of recipients directly in an email, it is uncommon to use “et al.” in the salutation. Rather, refer to the primary addressee or the group in a context-appropriate way, such as “Dear Dr. Smith and team,” or “Dear Project Contributors.” Save “et al.” for citations or references to documents and research in the body of your email.
Note, that the purpose of using “et al.” is to achieve clarity and brevity in communication, but to ensure that all contributors are recognized. This practice indicates an appreciation both for the cooperative work of a group and for the professional and academic norms of written communication.
