The distinction between “cite” and “quote” lies in their functions: to “cite” is to refer to an authoritative source or provide attribution for information, often in academic writing, while to “quote” is to reproduce someone else’s words verbatim.
A citation offers a summary or paraphrase and includes proper credits, whereas a quotation involves the direct inclusion of exact language used by the source. Both are essential in research and writing, but they serve different purposes in terms of presenting and crediting information.
Cite
Definition: To “cite” means to refer to or mention an authoritative source to support an argument, idea, or information presented. It provides attribution to the original creator of the idea, study, or work.
Usage:
- Academic Writing: Authors cite sources to provide evidence for their claims and give credit to previous research. Example: “As Smith (2020) cited, climate change is accelerating.”
- Legal Contexts: Legal documents cite cases or laws as precedents. Example: “The lawyer cited the ruling in Roe v. Wade to argue her case.”
- Speech: Individuals cite statistics or studies to support their arguments. Example: “He cited recent statistics to demonstrate the increase in global temperatures.”
Quote
Definition: To “quote” means to repeat the exact words spoken or written by another person, typically with quotation marks to denote the direct reproduction of text.
Usage:
- Literature: Quotes are used to highlight specific passages or famous sayings. Example: “In his novel, he quotes ‘To be, or not to be, that is the question.'”
- Speeches and Interviews: People often quote individuals to emphasize their statements or beliefs. Example: “The journalist quoted the president’s speech word-for-word.”
- Academic Papers: Scholars quote primary sources to provide direct evidence for their arguments. Example: “The author quoted Dr. King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.”
Both “cite” and “quote” play crucial roles in attributing ideas and words to their original authors, maintaining the integrity of information and communication.
