close quote: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumTechnical / Formal
Quick answer
What does “close quote” mean?
The punctuation mark (”) used to indicate the end of a quotation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The punctuation mark (”) used to indicate the end of a quotation.
A term used in writing and typography to denote the concluding quotation mark. It can also function as a verbal instruction when dictating text aloud.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The punctuation mark itself is identical. The key difference is in surrounding punctuation: in British style, punctuation typically goes outside the close quote unless it's part of the quoted material. In American style, commas and periods almost always go inside the close quote.
Connotations
Technical, instructional. No significant difference in connotation between UK and US usage.
Frequency
Equally common in editorial and writing contexts in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “close quote” in a Sentence
[Subject] + placed + the + close quote + [after the quote]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “close quote” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Remember to close quote after the cited passage.
American English
- The transcriptionist will need you to say 'close quote' at the end.
adjective
British English
- The close-quote character is missing from your manuscript.
American English
- Please check the close quote placement on page 42.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in report writing and formal correspondence to correctly format direct speech or cited material.
Academic
Essential in research papers and essays for accurately quoting sources and following style guides.
Everyday
Rare in casual speech, mostly used when discussing writing or reading text aloud, e.g., 'He said, quote, I'll be there soon, close quote.'
Technical
Used in programming, typesetting, word processing, and copy-editing to specify a specific typographical character.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “close quote”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “close quote”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “close quote”
- Placing a comma or full stop incorrectly relative to the close quote (UK vs. US rules).
- Using a single 'straight' quote (') instead of a proper 'curly' or 'smart' close quote (”).
- Omitting the close quote entirely, leaving the quotation unended.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is conventionally written as two words when referring to the punctuation mark.
In informal digital communication (like texting), it's common. In formal writing and typesetting, a dedicated 'curly' or 'smart' close quote character (”) is preferred for professional appearance.
You literally say 'close quote' or 'end quote' to indicate where the quotation mark should be inserted.
The opposite is 'open quote', which is the punctuation mark (" or ') used to indicate the beginning of a quotation.
The punctuation mark (”) used to indicate the end of a quotation.
Close quote is usually technical / formal in register.
Close quote: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkləʊz ˈkwəʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkloʊz ˈkwoʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Don't forget your close quotes." (Figuratively, reminding someone to properly attribute or end their statement)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a door: an OPEN quote starts the speech, and a CLOSE quote shuts it.
Conceptual Metaphor
QUOTATION IS A CONTAINER (The quote marks are the walls, the close quote is the closing lid or door).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a rule for 'close quote' usage in American English?