Direct quote

Definition

A direct quote is an exact repetition of someone's spoken or written words, typically enclosed in quotation marks. It allows the writer to present the speaker's original language, capturing the tone, intent, and nuance of their message, which can enhance credibility and engage the audience. Direct quotes are essential in reporting and writing, as they provide authenticity and give readers insight into the speaker's perspective.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Direct quotes must be attributed to the original speaker or writer to maintain ethical standards and credibility.
2. In AP Style, commas and periods are placed inside quotation marks, while colons and semicolons are placed outside.
3. When quoting someone, it's important to use their exact words, including any grammatical errors or idiosyncrasies to preserve authenticity.
4. Direct quotes can help provide support for arguments or claims made in a piece of writing by offering authoritative voices.
5. Using direct quotes can also improve reader engagement by adding variety and interest to the text, breaking up longer sections of paraphrased information.

Review Questions

• How does using direct quotes contribute to the credibility and engagement of a piece of writing?
  • Direct quotes contribute to credibility by providing authoritative voices that support the claims made in a piece of writing. They allow readers to hear the original speaker's tone and intent, making the content more relatable and engaging. This authenticity helps build trust with the audience as they see firsthand what someone said, rather than just a summary or interpretation.
• What are the key differences between a direct quote and a paraphrase in terms of usage and presentation in writing?
  • A direct quote presents someone's exact words, providing precise language and nuance, while a paraphrase restates those ideas in your own words without altering the original meaning. In writing, direct quotes are enclosed in quotation marks and require attribution to the source. Paraphrases do not use quotation marks but still need proper citation. The choice between using one or the other depends on how closely you want to convey the original speaker's thoughts versus summarizing them.
• Evaluate the impact of improper use of direct quotes on the overall integrity of journalistic writing.
  • Improper use of direct quotes can significantly undermine the integrity of journalistic writing. If quotes are misrepresented or taken out of context, it can lead to misinformation and damage the trust between journalists and their audience. Ethical standards dictate that journalists must accurately represent speakers' words, ensuring that their quotes are attributed correctly and reflect their true intent. Violating these principles not only risks legal repercussions but also harms the credibility of both the journalist and their publication.

Related terms

paraphrase: A paraphrase is a restatement of someone else's ideas or statements in your own words while maintaining the original meaning.

attribution: Attribution is the act of crediting a statement or idea to its original source, essential for establishing credibility when using quotes.

indirect quote: An indirect quote conveys the essence of what someone said without using their exact words, typically summarizing or rephrasing their statement.