Each entry kicks off with a simple explanation and some basic examples before giving real-life, entertaining examples. Written by the founder of Grammar Monster, 'Smashing Grammar' includes a comprehensive A-Z glossary of essential grammar terms, a detailed punctuation section, and a chapter on easily confused words. Of interest, the founder of the AUC calendar forgot that Emperor Augustus ruled for four years as Octavian before changing his name, and – as he used Roman numerals not Arabic numbers – he overlooked the years 0 BC or AD 0. ' The Roman calendar was used until AD 525. AUC stands for 'Ab Urbe Condita' and means 'foundation of the city.

The Roman calendar (not used) counted from 753 BC or 0 AUC.

The Jewish calendar starts around 5,800 years ago from the date of the creation as described in scripture.

The Muslim calendar starts from the Hijra (Muhammad's flight from Mecca to Medina) in AD 622.

The Hindu calendar dates back to 3100 BC.

The Chinese calendar dates back to 2700 BC.

The Christian calendar starts from the birth of Christ in the year zero (AD 0). While other calendars are in use today, the 'Christian' calendar now dominates. Caesar Augustus ruled from 27 BCE to 14 CE.Caesar Augustus ruled from 27 BC to AD 14.Here is the earlier example again written in both conventions:

To cater to religious diversity, the abbreviations BCE (Before Common Era) and CE (Common Era) can be used to replace BC and AD.

Here are some real-life examples of writing years: Real-Life Examples of Writing Years with AD, BC, BCE, and CE

In the bible what does ad mean