How to Quote a Quote in Standard American English
Quoting a quote accurately and effectively is an important skill for writers, researchers, and anyone who needs to convey information from one source to another. In Standard American English, there are specific rules for quoting a quote, which can vary depending on the context in which the quote is being used.
Direct and Indirect Quotations
The first step in quoting a quote is to determine whether you want to use a direct or indirect quotation.
- Direct quotation: A direct quotation reproduces the exact words of the original speaker or writer. It is enclosed in quotation marks and attributed to the source.
- Indirect quotation: An indirect quotation reports the meaning of the original statement without using the exact words. It is not enclosed in quotation marks and is attributed to the source using a reporting verb such as "said" or "stated."
Example:
- Direct quotation: "The earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena," said Carl Sagan.
- Indirect quotation: Carl Sagan stated that the earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena.
Quoting a Quote Within a Quote
When quoting a quote that contains a quote within itself, it is important to use a different set of quotation marks for each level of quotation. Single quotation marks are used for the inner quote, while double quotation marks are used for the outer quote.
Example:
"It’s not the years in your life that count," said Abraham Lincoln, "it’s the life in your years."
Quoting a Quote with Ellipsis
Ellipsis points (…) are used to indicate that part of the original quote has been omitted. They should be used sparingly and only when necessary to convey the meaning of the quote without altering its context.
Example:
"A good conscience is the best pillow," said George Herbert (1593–1633), "… for it will make a man sleep soundly in spite of a world in arms."
Quoting a Quote with Brackets
Brackets [ ] are used to indicate that the writer has added or changed something in the original quote. This is typically done to clarify the quote or to make it more readable.
Example:
"The best way to predict the future is to create it," said Abraham Lincoln [1809-1865].
Quoting a Quote in a Parenthetical Citation
When quoting a quote in a parenthetical citation, the citation should follow the quote and include the author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number.
Example:
"The earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena" (Sagan, 1980, p. 102).
Quoting a Quote in a Block Quotation
When quoting a long quote (more than four lines), it is typically indented as a block quotation. Block quotations do not use quotation marks, but they should be attributed to the source with a parenthetical citation.
Example:
The best way to predict the future is to create it. The future is not some place we are going to, but one we are creating. The paths are not to be found, but made. And the activity of making them changes both the maker and the destination.
- Abraham Lincoln
FAQ
Q: When should I use a direct quotation?
A: Direct quotations should be used when the exact words of the original speaker or writer are important to the context.
Q: When should I use an indirect quotation?
A: Indirect quotations should be used when the meaning of the original statement is more important than the exact words.
Q: How do I quote a quote within a quote?
A: Use single quotation marks for the inner quote and double quotation marks for the outer quote.
Q: How do I use ellipsis points in a quote?
A: Use ellipsis points to indicate that part of the original quote has been omitted.
Q: How do I use brackets in a quote?
A: Use brackets to indicate that the writer has added or changed something in the original quote.
Q: How do I cite a quote in a parenthetical citation?
A: Include the author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number in the citation.
Q: How do I format a block quotation?
A: Indent the block quotation and attribute it to the source with a parenthetical citation.
Conclusion
Quoting a quote accurately and effectively is an important skill for writers, researchers, and anyone who needs to convey information from one source to another. By following the rules outlined in this article, you can ensure that your quotes are both accurate and clear.
