I mean this to be construction but it is time to un-ingrain it and fortunately it is easy.
B.C. is English and an abbreviation of “Before Christ.”
A.D. is Latin and an abbreviation for “anno Domini,” which is Latin for “in the year of our Lord.”
The year "1776 Before Christ" and "In the Year of Our Lord 1776" are correct. 1776 B.C and A.D. 1776.
The definitions I know. The idea that one goes before and one goes after is what is not making great sense. THAT’S what is going to be continuously confusing. I’m just as likely to reverse which one goes in front or behind, I fear, if I try to go canonical. New information, like phoneme analysis, is not a big deal to learn - even at my advanced age. It’s old habits that, as they say, die hard. But thanks for the push.
My expertise in a number of fields is great. My idiocy in others is legend. I can still remember being shocked to learn that Cuba wasn’t off California. Geography and geometry will always be my bugaboos. I will now add BC and AD to those. But I truly enjoy your corrections. Keep after me!