Such as introduces representative, non-exhaustive examples, as in languages such as Spanish and Italian evolved from Latin. Namely and viz. introduce the exact, specific item being referred to, while that is (to say) restates or clarifies a preceding statement rather than giving examples.
Grammar Rule
Such as introduces representative, non-exhaustive examples. Namely introduces the exact, specific item(s) being referred to, always preceded by a comma. That is (to say) restates or clarifies a preceding statement rather than giving examples. Viz. is a highly formal written abbreviation functioning like namely, used mainly in academic or legal registers.
Such As, Namely, That Is (To Say), Viz.: Rules and Examples
| Expression | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Such as | open, illustrative examples | Languages such as Spanish and Italian evolved from Latin. |
| Namely / Viz. | exact, exhaustive specification | Only one applicant met every requirement, namely the PhD candidate. |
| That is (to say) | restates or clarifies, not exemplifies | The museum is closed on public holidays, that is, on Christmas Day. |
Remember: Use such as for open, illustrative examples; use namely or viz. to specify exactly what was meant; use that is (to say) to restate or clarify, not to exemplify.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing correctly among such as, namely, that is, and viz. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C2-34 "Such as", "That is", "Namely", "Viz." — Elaboration Markers
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does such as introduce?
Representative, non-exhaustive examples, as in languages such as Spanish and Italian evolved from Latin.
What do namely and viz. introduce?
The exact, specific item being referred to, as in only one applicant met every requirement, namely the PhD candidate.
What does that is (to say) do?
Restates or clarifies a preceding statement, rather than giving examples.
Where is viz. mainly used?
In academic or legal registers, as a highly formal written abbreviation functioning like namely.