Word Choice: Historical vs. Historic

‘History’ is a relatively simple word used to refer to the past. It is also an academic subject. But with the adjectival forms of ‘history’ (‘historical’ and ‘historic’), things get complicated.

Due to their similar spelling and meaning, these terms are often used incorrectly. But this can be a problem in academic writing, where mistakes can make a big difference!

Historical (Related to History)

‘Historical’ simply means ‘of or relating to history’. As such, it can be used to refer to something from the past:

Historical documents reveal that the king was murdered.

The book describes a number of historical figures.

Or it can be used to describe something that is based in or imitates the past:

The historical re-enactment was fun! I was a knight!

So when you use this word, you’re simply describing something as being related to the past.

Historic (Important in History)

‘Historic’ specifically refers to something significant in relation to the past. So when using this word, you’re highlighting the importance of something.

This could be an influential artefact or event from the past:

James Cook’s arrival in Australia was a historic moment in many ways.

Or it could be an unprecedented current event that is expected to remain important throughout history:

Jessica Gallagher’s historic bronze for cycling at Rio 2016 made her the first Australian athlete to win medals at both the Summer and Winter Paralympics.

Unlike ‘historical’, which is non-judgemental, we use ‘historic’ when we want to emphasise the significance of something in relation to past events or achievements.

Historical or Historic?

The main problem with distinguishing between these words is that they can overlap. For example, Cook’s voyage to Australia happened in the past, making it ‘historical’. But it was also significant, making it ‘historic’.

As such, you need to know what you’re trying to say. Is it about something noteworthy? If so, you should use ‘historic’. But if you’re simply describing something from the past, you should use ‘historical’.

One way to recall this is to note the word endings, since ‘historic’ has a more ‘specific’ meaning! Remember:

Historical = From or related to the past

Historic = Of particular historical importance