Direct quotation

Definition

A direct quotation is a verbatim repetition of someone else's spoken or written words, enclosed in quotation marks, to accurately convey the speaker's original message. It serves to provide authenticity and credibility in news writing by presenting the source's exact words, reflecting their thoughts, opinions, or emotions without interpretation or alteration. Direct quotations are essential for attributing statements to sources and maintaining journalistic integrity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Direct quotations must be enclosed in quotation marks to clearly indicate that they are the exact words of the source.
2. It is important to accurately transcribe direct quotations to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the information being presented.
3. Direct quotations can enhance a story by providing insight into a source's personality, emotions, or perspective, making it more engaging for readers.
4. When using direct quotations, journalists should provide attribution to give credit to the original speaker and establish credibility.
5. Overusing direct quotations can lead to a cluttered narrative; therefore, it's important to balance them with paraphrased content and summary.

Review Questions

• How does the use of direct quotations contribute to the credibility of a news story?
  • Direct quotations contribute to the credibility of a news story by providing readers with accurate and authentic representations of what sources have said. By quoting someone directly, journalists allow audiences to hear the voices and opinions of individuals involved in the story, which enhances transparency. This practice not only enriches the narrative but also builds trust with readers as they see that information is sourced directly from individuals rather than being filtered through the journalist's interpretation.
• Discuss the potential impact of misquoting a source in news writing and how direct quotations can mitigate this risk.
  • Misquoting a source can have serious implications for journalists, including damaging reputations and eroding trust with audiences. By using direct quotations, journalists can reduce this risk by accurately representing what was said without paraphrasing or altering the original meaning. This practice not only ensures that readers receive information as intended by the speaker but also provides a clear point of reference for any disputes regarding accuracy. When direct quotations are used correctly, they serve as a safeguard against misrepresentation.
• Evaluate how direct quotations can affect the tone and engagement level of a news article.
  • Direct quotations significantly influence both the tone and engagement level of a news article by adding authenticity and emotional depth. When readers encounter the genuine words of sources, it creates a personal connection that enhances their interest and investment in the story. The varied language and expressions found in direct quotes can inject life into an otherwise straightforward narrative, allowing for a more dynamic reading experience. Evaluating this impact reveals that thoughtful integration of direct quotations is key to crafting compelling journalism that resonates with audiences.

Related terms

attribution: The acknowledgment of the source of information or quotes in a news article, usually specifying who said or wrote the quoted material.

paraphrase: A rewording of someone else's ideas or statements in one's own words, used to convey the same message while not directly quoting the original source.

context: The background information surrounding a quotation that helps clarify its meaning and significance within a story.