Welcome! If you’re searching for different ways to express the word “quotation,” you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore various formal and informal alternatives to this term. Whether you’re a writer, a speaker, or simply looking to diversify your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Synonyms for “Quotation”
When it comes to formal language, it’s important to communicate with precision and clarity. Here are some alternatives you can use:
1. Citation
In scholarly or academic contexts, “citation” is frequently used to refer to an exact reference or a fragment of written work.
Example: According to the citation from Smith’s article, “Education is the key to success,”…
2. Extract
When you want to emphasize a part taken from a larger piece of text, particularly in legal or technical documentation, “extract” serves as a suitable substitute for “quotation.”
Example: The following extract from the report highlights the potential impact of climate change on coastal regions…
3. Passage
If you’re referring to a section or segment of written work, the term “passage” can be an elegant alternative to “quotation.”
Example: The philosophical text includes a profound passage about the nature of existence…
4. Reference
Utilize “reference” when you’d like to indicate a specific source or an authoritative statement made by someone in the past.
Example: In his reference to Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech, the author highlights…
Informal Synonyms for “Quotation”
If you’re seeking more casual options, consider these informal alternatives:
1. Quote
“Quote” is a widely used substitute for the more formal “quotation,” and it seamlessly fits into everyday conversations.
Example: She greeted him with her favorite movie quote: “You had me at hello.”
2. Saying
When discussing popular sayings or commonly repeated phrases, “saying” offers a versatile alternative for “quotation.”
Example: I remember my grandmother’s favorite saying, “Actions speak louder than words.”
3. Line
For informal contexts, “line” can be used to indicate a memorable or noteworthy phrase from a movie, song, or even a conversation.
Example: The best line from the movie was when the protagonist said, “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn.”
4. Snippet
When referring to a small extract or a concise piece of text, “snippet” serves as an excellent alternative to “quotation.”
Example: Twitter allows for only a 280-character snippet to share your thoughts.
Regional Variations
English is a language with rich regional variations. While the options above are widely understood and applicable across different English-speaking regions, here are a few additional noteworthy phrases that you may come across:
- United Kingdom: In British English, you might hear “quote” or “quotation” as commonly as in American English, but occasionally “citation” can be used more formally.
- Australia: Australians often use “quote” and “quotation” interchangeably in both formal and informal contexts.
- Canada: Similar to American English, Canadians predominantly use “quote” or “quotation” for both formal and informal purposes.
Remember, regional variations in vocabulary are minor, and the suggested alternatives above can be used universally among English speakers.
Putting It All Together
Now that you’re armed with an array of alternatives, you can confidently incorporate different terms in your conversations, writing, or presentations. Remember to choose words according to the formality of the situation. Here’s a final example to demonstrate:
While writing my research paper, I came across an extraordinary passage that perfectly supported my argument.
Informally, he texted me a snippet of Shakespeare’s famous line: “To be, or not to be: that is the question!”
With these various alternatives at your disposal, you’ll be able to express the notion of a “quotation” with greater creativity and finesse while effectively communicating your intended message.
Happy quoting!
