Attribution verbs

Definition

Attribution verbs are words used to indicate the source of a quote or information in news writing. They help clarify who said what and lend credibility to the reported statements. Proper use of attribution verbs is essential for journalistic integrity and allows readers to understand the context and reliability of the information being presented.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common attribution verbs include 'said', 'stated', 'claimed', 'argued', and 'reported', each conveying different nuances about the source's intent or certainty.
2. Using strong attribution verbs can enhance a news story by providing insight into the speaker's attitude, such as using 'asserted' for confidence or 'suggested' for more tentative language.
3. Attribution verbs should typically appear before or after a quote, helping to clearly identify the source and prevent confusion for readers.
4. Proper attribution helps avoid plagiarism by giving credit to the original speaker, which is a fundamental principle in journalism.
5. In some cases, using an attribution verb can also serve to distance the writer from a controversial statement by making it clear that the words belong to another person.

Review Questions

• How do attribution verbs affect the clarity and reliability of quotes in news writing?
  • Attribution verbs play a crucial role in enhancing the clarity and reliability of quotes in news writing by clearly indicating who is speaking and what they are saying. By using specific verbs, journalists can convey nuances about the source's attitude or intent, which helps readers better understand the context of the statement. This is essential for establishing trustworthiness in reporting and ensuring that audiences can accurately interpret the information presented.
• Analyze the impact of using various attribution verbs on reader perception and engagement with a news article.
  • The choice of attribution verbs significantly influences reader perception and engagement with a news article. For example, using stronger verbs like 'declared' or 'proclaimed' can convey authority and urgency, drawing readers' attention to important statements. Conversely, softer verbs like 'suggested' may indicate uncertainty or speculation, affecting how readers perceive the credibility of the information. By carefully selecting attribution verbs, journalists can shape the narrative and guide audience reactions to different perspectives within their reporting.
• Evaluate how mastering the use of attribution verbs contributes to ethical journalism practices.
  • Mastering the use of attribution verbs is vital for ethical journalism as it fosters transparency and accountability in reporting. By accurately attributing quotes and information to their sources, journalists uphold principles of honesty and integrity, which are foundational to maintaining public trust. This practice not only prevents plagiarism but also ensures that readers have a clear understanding of where information originates, allowing them to make informed judgments about its reliability. Ultimately, effective use of attribution verbs enhances journalistic credibility while promoting ethical standards in media.

Related terms

Quoting: The act of directly repeating someone else's spoken or written words, usually enclosed in quotation marks, to provide evidence or illustrate a point.

Paraphrasing: Rewording or summarizing someone else's ideas or statements while maintaining the original meaning, often used to simplify complex information.

Credibility: The quality of being trusted and believed in; crucial for journalists to establish through accurate reporting and proper attribution of sources.