The English language has many words that can be easily confused with each other. Quote, and quotation is words often used interchangeably but have very different meanings. Knowing the difference between quote and quotation can be very helpful in understanding how to use them properly.
The word quote is commonly used to refer to a short excerpt from a book, poem, article, or speech. The quote can be a few words, a sentence, or a few paragraphs, depending on the context. It usually stands alone and is used to illustrate a point or idea. For example, “Life is like a box of chocolates,” is a quote from Forrest Gump.
On the other hand, a quotation is an exact replication of a statement in its entirety. Quotations are not shortened and include all the words used in the original statement. Quotations are commonly used in academic writing to support a point or idea. For example, “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” is a quotation from Forrest Gump.
Knowing the difference between quote and quotation is essential to proper communication in academic and everyday contexts. Generally, a quote refers to a small excerpt from a text, while a quotation refers to an exact replication of a statement. By understanding the difference between these two words, you can ensure that your message is accurately conveyed.
