Understanding Sic and Sick

Differences Between “Sic” and “Sick”

The words “sic” and “sick” can be confusing because they sound the same. But they have different meanings and uses. Let’s learn about each word.

History of the Words

“Sic” comes from Latin. It means “so” or “thus.” People use it to show that a word is written exactly as it was originally. “Sick” is an old English word. It means feeling bad or unwell in the body.

How to Use “Sic”

Use “sic” to show that a mistake in a quote is not your mistake. You show that it is part of the original text.

• He wrote, “She seen (sic) him at the store.”
• The book says, “They is (sic) happy.”
• The email read, “We was (sic) going.”
• “The cat has it’s (sic) own bed,” he commented.
• She texted, “I dont (sic) know.”

How to Use “Sick”

Use “sick” to talk about not feeling well. It can mean a cold, the flu, or any feeling of bad health.

• I feel sick today.
• The child is sick with a fever.
• She called off work because she is sick.
• He looks very sick and needs to see a doctor.
• The puppy was sick after eating too much.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember: “Sic” is for mistakes in writing, “sick” is for feeling unwell.

Summary

Sic: Use “sic” when showing mistakes in someone else’s writing.

Sick: Use “sick” when talking about feeling bad or unwell.

Now you know the difference between “sic” and “sick” and how to use them correctly!