Quotation

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /kwoʊˈteɪʃn̩/

Definitions

1. A passage or phrase taken from a written work or speech and repeated by someone else
2. A fragment of text or dialogue extracted from literature or oratory, often utilized to reinforce an argument or notion
3. A repeated segment from a literary piece or speech that serves to support a statement or idea

Etymology: The term "quotation" finds its roots in the Latin verb "quotare," which means "to mark a number" or "to designate," deriving from "quot," meaning "how many." This Latin origin highlights the act of specifying or citing a particular passage or statement, which is central to the modern usage of the word. The concept of marking or indicating is fundamental to understanding how it evolved into its present form. The transition from Latin to English occurred through Old French, where "cotation" emerged, referring to the act of quoting or citing. It is in this form that the term began to take shape as a noun in the English language. The introduction of this noun into English likely took place in the late 14th century, as the language was heavily influenced by Norman French after the Conquest of 1066. By the 15th century, "quotation" began to be used more broadly, particularly in contexts related to literature and speech, where citing someone else's words became an important practice. As the word evolved, it maintained a connection to its original meaning of marking or indicating something. In the context of written works, a quotation signifies the direct reproduction of someone else’s words, often enclosed in quotation marks to denote that these are not the speaker's or writer's own. This practice underscores the importance of attribution and intellectual honesty in both literary and academic pursuits. Over the centuries, the usage of this term expanded beyond simple citation to encompass various forms of reference, including literary quotes, legal citations, and even monetary quotes in financial contexts. This semantic broadening reflects how the core idea of "marking" or "citing" can apply to diverse fields, from literature to economics. The adaptability of this term showcases the fluid nature of language and its capacity to evolve alongside societal changes. In contemporary usage, "quotation" is often associated with the act of referencing someone else's words to enhance one's own arguments or to provide authority and credibility. This reflects a shift from merely marking a number to the importance of verifying sources and giving due credit, which has become increasingly critical in the age of information. As such, this term not only retains its historical roots but also embodies the ongoing dialogue about authorship and originality in communication. Today, the concept of quoting is ubiquitous in both spoken and written language, from casual conversations to formal academic writing. The dual nature of the word—both as a noun indicating a specific passage and as a broader practice of citation—demonstrates its essential role in the structure of discourse. Thus, "quotation" stands as a testament to the evolution of language and its ability to encapsulate complex ideas through simple terms.

Synonyms: citation, quote, excerpt

Antonyms: paraphrase