Citing Black's Law Dictionary: Chicago Manual Of Style Guide

how to cite black

Citing *Black's Law Dictionary* using the *Chicago Manual of Style* is a common task for legal scholars, students, and professionals who need to reference this authoritative legal resource in their academic or professional writing. The Chicago style, known for its flexibility and widespread use in humanities and social sciences, provides specific guidelines for citing dictionaries, including legal dictionaries like *Black's Law Dictionary*. Proper citation ensures academic integrity and allows readers to locate the source easily. This guide will outline the steps to accurately cite *Black's Law Dictionary* in both the notes-bibliography system and the author-date system, covering essential elements such as edition, entry title, and publication details. Understanding these rules is crucial for maintaining consistency and adhering to scholarly standards in legal and interdisciplinary research.

Characteristics Values
Citation Style Chicago Manual of Style (Author-Date or Notes-Bibliography)
Source Type Dictionary
Author Bryan A. Garner (editor)
Title Black's Law Dictionary
Edition 11th ed. (or relevant edition)
Publisher West Group
Publication Year 2019 (or relevant year)
Author-Date Citation (In-Text) (Garner, 2019)
Author-Date Citation (Reference List) Garner, Bryan A., ed. 2019. Black's Law Dictionary. 11th ed. St. Paul, MN: West Group.
Notes-Bibliography Citation (Footnote/Endnote) 1. Bryan A. Garner, ed., Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed. (St. Paul, MN: West Group, 2019).
Notes-Bibliography Citation (Bibliography) Garner, Bryan A., ed. Black's Law Dictionary. 11th ed. St. Paul, MN: West Group, 2019.
Online Version Citation (if applicable) Include the URL and access date in the citation
Specific Entry Citation Include the entry term and page number after the title
Example of Specific Entry Citation (Author-Date) (Garner, 2019, "Contract," 403)
Example of Specific Entry Citation (Notes-Bibliography) 1. Bryan A. Garner, ed., Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed. (St. Paul, MN: West Group, 2019), "Contract," 403.

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When citing legal dictionaries like *Black's Law Dictionary* in Chicago style, it's essential to follow the guidelines outlined in *The Chicago Manual of Style* (CMOS). Chicago style offers two citation systems: author-date and notes-bibliography. For legal writing, the notes-bibliography system is typically preferred. In this system, citations appear as footnotes or endnotes, with a corresponding bibliography at the end of the document. To cite *Black's Law Dictionary*, begin with the dictionary's full title, edition number, and the year of publication. For example, the 11th edition would be cited as *Black's Law Dictionary* (11th ed. 2019). This foundational information ensures clarity and precision in your citation.

In the footnotes or endnotes, the citation format for *Black's Law Dictionary* includes the term being defined, followed by the dictionary title, edition, and the specific page or entry number. For instance, if referencing the term "negligence," the note would read: "Negligence, *Black's Law Dictionary* (11th ed. 2019), 1300." This format provides readers with direct access to the source. If you are citing multiple entries from the same edition, subsequent notes can use an abbreviated form, such as "Negligence, *Black's*, 1300," to save space and maintain consistency. Always ensure that the first citation is complete to avoid confusion.

The bibliography entry for *Black's Law Dictionary* follows a slightly different structure. It begins with the dictionary's title in italics, followed by the editor's name (if applicable), the edition number, and the publisher's location and name. For example: "*Black's Law Dictionary*. 11th ed. St. Paul, MN: Thomson Reuters, 2019." This entry provides a comprehensive overview of the source, allowing readers to locate it easily. Note that the bibliography is alphabetized by the title since *Black's Law Dictionary* does not have a primary author.

When citing online versions of *Black's Law Dictionary*, include the URL or database name in the citation. For example, a footnote might read: "Negligence, *Black's Law Dictionary* (11th ed. 2019), available at Westlaw (database)." In the bibliography, add the access date and the database information: "*Black's Law Dictionary*. 11th ed. Thomson Reuters, 2019. Westlaw, www.westlaw.com (accessed June 1, 2023)." This ensures that both print and digital sources are properly acknowledged.

Finally, consistency is key when applying Chicago style to legal dictionary citations. Double-check that all elements—such as italics, punctuation, and abbreviations—align with CMOS guidelines. For complex or unusual cases, consult the latest edition of *The Chicago Manual of Style* or reliable online guides. By adhering to these basics, you ensure that your citations are accurate, professional, and accessible to your readers.

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In-Text Citation Format for Black's Law Dictionary

When citing *Black's Law Dictionary* using the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), the in-text citation format is straightforward and follows the author-date system, though it can also be adapted for the notes-bibliography system. In the author-date system, the in-text citation includes the author’s last name (or the title of the dictionary if no specific author is listed), the year of publication, and the page number, all enclosed in parentheses. For *Black's Law Dictionary*, since it is a reference work without a specific author, the in-text citation typically uses the abbreviated title of the dictionary in place of the author’s name. For example, if you are referencing a definition from the 11th edition published in 2019, the in-text citation would appear as (*Black’s Law Dictionary* 2019, 1234), where "1234" is the page number of the entry.

In the notes-bibliography system, which is more commonly used in humanities disciplines, the in-text citation for *Black's Law Dictionary* appears as a footnote or endnote rather than within the text itself. The first citation in the note should include the full title of the dictionary, the edition, the publisher, the year of publication, and the page number. Subsequent citations can be shortened to include only the abbreviated title, the edition (if necessary), and the page number. For instance, the first citation might look like this:

> 1. *Black’s Law Dictionary*, 11th ed. (St. Paul, MN: Thomson Reuters, 2019), 1234.

Subsequent citations would then be shortened to:

> 2. *Black’s Law Dictionary*, 1234.

In both systems, consistency and clarity are key. Ensure that the in-text citation corresponds accurately to the full citation in the bibliography or reference list.

For electronic versions of *Black's Law Dictionary*, such as those accessed through online databases, the in-text citation remains largely the same, but the full citation in the bibliography or reference list should include the URL or DOI, if available. In the author-date system, the in-text citation would still follow the format (*Black’s Law Dictionary* 2019), with the full details provided in the reference list. In the notes-bibliography system, the footnote or endnote would include the electronic source details, such as the database name and access date, but the in-text notation remains a superscript number or symbol.

Finally, when citing a specific entry within *Black's Law Dictionary*, it is important to include the term being defined in both the in-text citation and the full citation. For example, if referencing the definition of "negligence," the in-text citation might appear as (*Black’s Law Dictionary* 2019, 1234 [defining "negligence"]) in the author-date system. In the notes-bibliography system, the footnote could specify the term:

> 1. *Black’s Law Dictionary*, 11th ed. (St. Paul, MN: Thomson Reuters, 2019), 1234 (defining "negligence").

This approach ensures that the reader can easily locate the specific entry being referenced. Always consult the latest edition of the *Chicago Manual of Style* for any updates or variations in citation guidelines.

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Bibliography Entry for Black's Law Dictionary

When creating a bibliography entry for *Black's Law Dictionary* using the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), it is essential to follow the specific guidelines for citing reference works. According to CMS, dictionaries are typically cited in a bibliography only if they are frequently consulted or if a specific entry is crucial to your work. For *Black's Law Dictionary*, the entry should include key details such as the edition, editor, publisher, and publication year. The general format for a dictionary citation in CMS is as follows: *Last Name, First Name, ed. Title of Dictionary. Edition. Publisher, Year.*

For *Black's Law Dictionary*, the bibliography entry begins with the editor's name, followed by the dictionary's title in italics. Since *Black's Law Dictionary* is a well-known legal reference, the title should be fully capitalized. The edition number is crucial, as legal scholars often rely on specific editions for accuracy. For example, if citing the 11th edition, the entry would include "11th ed." after the title. The publisher and publication year are then listed to complete the citation. Here is an example of a bibliography entry for the 11th edition: *Garner, Bryan A., ed. *Black's Law Dictionary*. 11th ed. Thomson Reuters, 2019.*

If you are citing a specific entry within *Black's Law Dictionary*, CMS recommends including a reference to that entry in the footnotes or endnotes rather than the bibliography. However, if the dictionary as a whole is a significant source, the bibliography entry remains as described. For older editions, ensure the editor's name (if applicable) and publication details are accurate, as these may vary. For instance, the 10th edition, edited by Bryan A. Garner, would be cited as: *Garner, Bryan A., ed. *Black's Law Dictionary*. 10th ed. Thomson West, 2014.*

In cases where *Black's Law Dictionary* is accessed online, additional information such as the database or website name and the URL may be included, though CMS generally advises against including URLs in bibliographies unless necessary. If an online version is used, the citation might appear as: *Garner, Bryan A., ed. *Black's Law Dictionary*. 11th ed. Thomson Reuters, 2019. Westlaw, https://www.westlaw.com.* However, for print versions, the standard format suffices.

Consistency and accuracy are key when citing *Black's Law Dictionary* in Chicago style. Always verify the edition, editor, and publication details to ensure the citation is correct. By adhering to these guidelines, your bibliography entry will be both precise and compliant with CMS standards, providing clear and reliable information for your readers.

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Citing Specific Editions of Black's Law Dictionary

When citing specific editions of *Black's Law Dictionary* using the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), it is essential to provide precise details to ensure clarity and accuracy. The Chicago style typically follows a notes-bibliography system, which includes footnotes or endnotes and a corresponding bibliography. For *Black's Law Dictionary*, the citation format will vary slightly depending on whether you are referencing a print edition or an online version. Always begin by identifying the specific edition you are using, as *Black's Law Dictionary* has been published in multiple editions, each with its own unique content and updates.

For a print edition, the citation in a footnote or endnote should include the following elements: the author or editor's name (if listed), the title of the dictionary in italics, the edition number, the publisher's name, the publication year, and the page number(s) of the entry being cited. For example, a citation for the 11th edition might look like this: "Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed. (St. Paul, MN: Thomson Reuters, 2019), 1545." If the author or editor is not listed, as is often the case with *Black's Law Dictionary*, omit this element and start with the title. In the bibliography, the entry would follow a similar format but omit the page number and include a period after the parentheses.

When citing an online version of *Black's Law Dictionary*, the format is slightly different. Include the title in italics, the edition number, the name of the database or website, the URL, and the date of access. For instance: "Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed., Westlaw, https://www.westlaw.com (accessed June 15, 2023)." If the online version is part of a specific database, such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, ensure you include the database name. In the bibliography, the entry would mirror the footnote but without the page number or access date.

It is crucial to note that the Chicago Manual of Style emphasizes consistency and completeness in citations. If you are citing multiple entries from the same edition of *Black's Law Dictionary*, you may use a shortened form after the first full citation. For example, subsequent citations could appear as: "Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed., 1545." However, always include the full citation in the bibliography to provide comprehensive information for readers.

Finally, when citing specific editions, ensure that the edition number is clearly indicated, as legal definitions and interpretations can vary significantly between editions. This attention to detail not only adheres to CMS guidelines but also enhances the credibility and reliability of your work. By following these instructions, you can accurately and effectively cite *Black's Law Dictionary* in accordance with the Chicago Manual of Style.

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Handling Multiple Volumes in Chicago Citations

When citing Black's Law Dictionary using the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), handling multiple volumes requires precision and adherence to specific guidelines. According to CMS, if the dictionary is published in multiple volumes, the volume number must be included in the citation to direct readers to the exact location of the entry. For example, if the term you are citing appears in Volume 2 of a multi-volume set, the citation should clearly indicate this. The general format for citing a multi-volume dictionary in Chicago style is: *Last Name, First Name. "Entry Title." In* Title of Dictionary, *edited by Editor's Name, volume number, (Place of Publication: Publisher, Year), page number.*

In the case of Black's Law Dictionary, the citation would follow a similar structure. For instance, if citing the term "negligence" from Volume 10 of the 11th edition, the citation would appear as: *Garner, Bryan A. "Negligence." In Black's Law Dictionary, 11th ed., vol. 10, (St. Paul, MN: Thomson Reuters, 2019), 1234.* Note that the editor's name (Bryan A. Garner) is included, as he is the primary editor of the 11th edition. The volume number (10) and page number (1234) are essential for locating the entry within the multi-volume set.

If the edition of Black's Law Dictionary you are using is not divided into multiple volumes but is instead a single, comprehensive volume, the volume number is omitted. However, if you are working with an older edition that spans multiple volumes, always include the volume number to ensure accuracy. For example, the 6th edition of Black's Law Dictionary is often found in two volumes, so citations would include either "vol. 1" or "vol. 2" as applicable.

When citing Black's Law Dictionary in a Chicago-style footnote or bibliography, consistency is key. If you are citing multiple entries from different volumes, each citation must include the respective volume number. For instance, if one term is in Volume 5 and another in Volume 8, both citations should reflect their specific volumes. This practice ensures that readers can easily locate the referenced entries, even in a large, multi-volume work.

Finally, if you are citing Black's Law Dictionary in a shortened form after the first full citation (as per Chicago's guidelines for subsequent citations), the volume number should still be retained if it changes. For example, a shortened citation for an entry in a different volume would look like: *Garner, "Fraud," vol. 7, 890.* This approach maintains clarity and directs readers to the correct volume without repeating unnecessary details. By carefully handling multiple volumes in Chicago citations, you ensure that your references are both accurate and user-friendly.

Frequently asked questions

In CMS, cite Black's Law Dictionary as a reference book. Use the following format: *Black’s Law Dictionary* (edition number, year), s.v. “term.” For example: *Black’s Law Dictionary* (11th ed. 2019), s.v. “negligence.”

"S.v." stands for *sub verbo*, a Latin term meaning "under the word." It is used to indicate the specific term being referenced in the dictionary.

No, Black's Law Dictionary is treated as a collective work, so the author’s name is not included in the citation. Focus on the title, edition, year, and the term being cited.

For the online version, add the URL or database name after the citation. Example: *Black’s Law Dictionary* (11th ed. 2019), s.v. “negligence,” Westlaw.

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