Quotation: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
October 26, 2025

1. Quotation (noun): A group of words taken from a text or speech and repeated by someone other than the original author or speaker.
2. Quotation (noun): The formal statement of the price of goods or services provided by a seller to a potential buyer.
3. Quotation (noun): The action of quoting words, prices, or figures from a source.

The word "quotation" has multiple uses, including referencing someone's words, providing a price estimate, or citing numerical data. It is frequently used in literature, business, and daily conversations. To better understand its scope, let’s examine its definitions, applications, and nuances in detail.

"Quotation" Definition: What Does "Quotation" Mean?

"Quotation" has diverse applications depending on the context, including literature, commerce, and everyday speech. Below are its core meanings.

Definition of "Quotation": Citing Words

A "quotation" refers to the repetition of a segment of text or speech attributed to its original author or speaker. This is essential in writing, communication, and public speaking.

Definition of "Quotation": Formal Price Statement

In commerce, a "quotation" is a formal document detailing the price of goods or services offered by a seller to a buyer. It provides clarity for transactions.

Definition of "Quotation": Act of Quoting

The act of quoting involves citing figures, prices, or text from a source. This use highlights the process rather than the content itself.

Parts of Speech

The word "quotation" functions as a noun. It is commonly used to describe a specific set of words, prices, or figures taken from another source. The related verb is "quote," which describes the action of repeating or citing something. Other related forms include "quoted" (past tense) and "quoting" (present participle).

How to Pronounce "Quotation"?

Pronouncing "quotation" correctly ensures clear communication.

The word "quotation" is pronounced as "kwoh-TAY-shun," where "kwoh" rhymes with "go," "TAY" sounds like the word "say," and "shun" rhymes with "fun." The stress falls on the second syllable, making the middle part the most emphasized portion of the word. Practice by saying "quote" first, then adding "ay" as in "day," and finishing with "shun" like the ending of "nation."

Phonetic Pronunciation: /kwoʊˈteɪ.ʃən/

Synonyms of "Quotation": Other Ways to Say "Quotation"

Exploring synonyms for "quotation" provides alternative expressions for various contexts. Here are some examples:

  • Citation
  • Excerpt
  • Price quote
  • Proposal
  • Offer
  • Passage
  • Reference
  • Extract

Antonyms of "Quotation": Other Ways to Say "Quotation"

Antonyms of "quotation" offer contrasting concepts, such as original statements or generalizations. Here are some examples:

  • Paraphrase
  • Summary
  • Generalization
  • Original statement
  • Assertion

Examples of "Quotation" in a Sentence

To illustrate its versatility, here are ten examples of "quotation" in various contexts:

  1. The speech began with a powerful quotation from Martin Luther King Jr.
  2. The builder provided a quotation for the cost of renovating the house.
  3. The essay included a memorable quotation from Shakespeare's plays.
  4. The client requested a detailed quotation before signing the contract.
  5. The teacher reminded students to include a proper quotation when citing sources.
  6. He added a famous quotation to his presentation to emphasize his point.
  7. The quotation for the new software exceeded the company’s budget.
  8. The artist placed a thought-provoking quotation on the gallery wall.
  9. The stockbroker shared a real-time quotation for the company's shares.
  10. The book's opening quotation sets the tone for the narrative.

Frequency of Use

The term "quotation" is frequently used in both academic and professional contexts. Its use is prevalent in literary discussions, business negotiations, and financial transactions. Its frequency reflects the importance of accuracy in attributing words and figures to their sources.

Variants of "Quotation"

Variants of "quotation" expand its usage across different contexts. Here are the most common forms:

  1. Quote (noun/verb): A shorter and more casual form of "quotation."
  2. Quoting (verb): The act of providing a quotation.
  3. Quoted (adjective): Describes something that has been cited or repeated.

Related Terms to "Quotation"

Here are some terms closely related to "quotation":

  1. Attribution
  2. Reference
  3. Paraphrase
  4. Annotation
  5. Documentation
  6. Pricing
  7. Excerpting

Etymology: History and Origins of "Quotation"

The word "quotation" originates from the Latin word quotare, meaning "to mark or number." It entered English in the late 15th century, initially referring to the act of marking passages. Over time, its usage expanded to include citing words, prices, and figures. Today, it serves as a vital concept in literature, commerce, and communication.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Quotation"

"Quotation" has given rise to several derivatives and compounds. Here are some examples:

  1. Quotation mark: The punctuation mark used to indicate direct speech or a quote (“ ”).
  2. Quotation block: A format used in writing to emphasize a quoted passage.
  3. Price quotation: A formal statement of the price of goods or services.

Common Misspellings of "Quotation"

Misspellings of "quotation" often occur due to pronunciation or unfamiliarity. Here are common errors:

  1. Quoatation
  2. Quetation
  3. Quottation

10 Idioms Similar to "Quotation"

Idioms related to "quotation" emphasize the act of repetition or attribution. Here are ten examples:

  1. Take it word for word
  2. Quoted verbatim
  3. Give credit where credit is due
  4. Put it in writing
  5. Mark my words
  6. Words to live by
  7. Go on the record
  8. Repeat after me
  9. Stick to the script
  10. Call attention to

10 Common Questions About "Quotation"

Below are ten frequently asked questions about "quotation," along with detailed answers.

1. What is a "quotation" in literature?

It is a cited passage or phrase taken from a text or speech and attributed to its original source.

2. How is a "quotation" used in business?

In business, it is a formal price proposal provided by a seller to a buyer for specific goods or services.

3. What are quotation marks?

Quotation marks are punctuation marks (“ ”) used to indicate direct speech, quotes, or titles of shorter works.

4. What is the difference between a quote and a quotation?

"Quote" is an informal or shortened form of "quotation," often used interchangeably in casual speech.

5. How do you format a quotation in writing?

Quotations are typically enclosed in quotation marks and followed by a proper citation.

6. Can quotations be used in formal speeches?

Yes, quotations are commonly included in formal speeches to emphasize or support arguments.

7. Why are quotations important in academic writing?

They provide evidence, support claims, and attribute credit to original authors.

8. What does "verbatim quotation" mean?

It refers to an exact repetition of words or phrases as they appeared in the original source.

9. What is a "block quotation" in essays?

A block quotation is a longer quoted passage formatted separately from the main text, usually indented.

10. How are quotations used in financial markets?

They represent the price or value of assets, such as stocks or commodities, in trading environments.

Conclusion

"Quotation" is a versatile term encompassing cited words, price statements, and the act of quoting. Understanding its meanings enhances clarity in writing, communication, and business. Explore more terms to enrich your vocabulary and appreciation of language.

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