It is difficult to explain the origin of the version of GE – 
in FC is clear, which practically excludes misinterpretation; moreover, there is no reason why the engraver or reviser would have needed to change that indication (Chopin did not participate in the creation of GE). Chopin would generally use mezza voce to determine the grade of dynamics between 
and 
, usually written down as m.v. The uncommon indication was written in A in a similar manner, i.e. as m.f., which we reproduce only in the graphical transcription (the version "transcription").
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category imprint: Differences between sources
issues: GE revisions
notation: Verbal indications