Versus versus "vs." in writing?

Question

In writing, when should one use the abbreviation *vs.* as opposed to the full *versus*? This abbreviation seems to have special status from common usage. What is the origin of that, and in what writing contexts is it important?

Answer 1

Versus is a word used to describe an action, usually against something or someone else. It is most commonly used to describe athletic teams competing against one another. This is the formal name but it does have an abbreviation.

The abbreviation is “vs.” but this abbreviation should be avoided in formal writing entirely. However, the abbreviation is not inappropriate for informal writing.