Varied shortened varieties characterize the idea of ‘near’ or ‘within the area of’ a specific worth. These embrace “approx.”, “appx.”, “ca.”, and the tilde image (~). For instance, as an alternative of writing “The fee is roughly $100,” one might write “The fee is approx. $100.”
Utilizing a shorter illustration of this idea improves effectivity in writing, notably in technical stories, scientific papers, or when area is proscribed, equivalent to in tables or figures. Traditionally, the necessity for brevity in handwritten and typeset paperwork spurred the adoption of those shorter varieties. Their continued use is a testomony to their utility in conveying info concisely.