quotes - Master This Word
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quotes Word Meanings
- to repeat someone else's words
- a statement that is repeated
- to mention as an example
quotes Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
quotes Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kwəʊt/
US
/kwoʊt/
quotes Word Etymology
quote comes from Latin 'quotare' (to mark, number) + 'quote' (to mention). It traveled through Old French before arriving in English. Imagine someone marking a famous line in a book to remember and share it.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean over the page, eyes shifting as my finger hovers over the keyboard. I move the cursor, pull up the line I want, and adjust my grip on the text as it appears. When I decide where to place it, I hold it apart with quotation marks and decide the tone I want to keep. The words settle into my own sentence, a small bridge that lets another voice speak through me.
Real Context
Quote can function as both a verb and a noun in English. As a verb, to quote means to repeat someone else’s exact words, usually with quotation marks and a citation that points to a source. As a noun, a quote is either a line taken from a book, speech, or interview, or a sentence used to illustrate a point in conversation or writing. English learners should note that many verbs collocate with quote as a direct action (quote, quoting) and with paraphrase (summarize, paraphrase). Punctuation matters: American usage often places closing punctuation inside the quotation marks; British style can differ with punctuation outside in some cases. Distinguish quoting from reporting or paraphrasing to avoid miscommunication.
Usage Reminders
- Use quote for exact words
- Place the words inside quotation marks
- Always attribute the source
- Differentiate direct quotation from paraphrase
- Be aware of American vs British punctuation rules
- Remember that a price quote is a different sense
Common Misconceptions
- Quote is only for famous lines; not for everyday speech
- Confusing quote with price quote (quotation) in business
- Using quote as a noun when it should be quotation
- Incorrect punctuation with quotes (closing punctuation outside quotes in British style)
- Forgetting to cite the source when quoting
Thinking Differences
English often treats quoting as a formal act that includes attribution and precise wording; many learners focus on grammar and punctuation but overlook source attribution and quotation marks usage across genres.
Learning Tips
- Practice quoting with short phrases first
- Always include author/source when quoting
- Differentiate quoting from paraphrasing
- Choose the correct quotation marks for your variety
- If quoting text longer than a sentence, use block quotes appropriately
- Be mindful of tone and formality
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