Vide

Vide is a Latin verb form meaning "to see." In English scholarly and legal writing, vide is used as a cross-reference directive meaning "see" or "observe," directing readers to another part of the text or to a different source.

Usage and examples: Vide typically appears in parentheses or at the end of a clause, sometimes followed by a citation or section reference. Common expressions include vide infra (see below) and vide supra (see above). It can also stand alone before a bibliographic reference, as in "vide Smith 1990." The device signals that additional information is found elsewhere rather than repeating it in place.

Etymology and history: From the Latin videre, meaning "to see," vide has a long history in medieval and early modern scholarship. It remains a conventional tool in certain genres, notably legal codes, critical editions, and humanities writings, where precise cross-referencing aids navigability and authority.

Interpretation and limitations: Because vide is a cue rather than a statement, it should be followed by a specific reference. Its usage is more common in older or more formal prose and may feel archaic to contemporary readers outside certain fields. In many modern styles, a plain "see" or "see also" serves the same purpose with clearer everyday language.

Related terms: Infra and supra are other Latin cross-reference terms used to indicate below or above material. Collectively, these forms help authors guide readers through layered arguments and sources.