quote
C2 (High frequency)Neutral to formal; widely used across all registers, including technical (finance, publishing) and everyday contexts.
Definition
Meaning
To repeat or copy out words from a text or speech, typically with acknowledgment of the source. Also, a quotation or estimated price.
To cite or refer to as evidence or authority; to give someone an estimated price for a job; to repeat a memorable phrase; in finance, to state the current market price of a security or commodity.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word functions both as a verb and a noun with closely related meanings. The noun can refer to the quoted words themselves or a price estimate.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'quotation marks' are more formally called 'inverted commas'. The noun 'quote' for a price estimate is equally common. In US English, 'quote' is standard for both the verb/noun related to citation and for price estimates.
Connotations
Slight informal connotation for the noun 'quote' (meaning a cited phrase) in very formal British writing, where 'quotation' might be preferred. This distinction is fading.
Frequency
The word is extremely high-frequency in both varieties with negligible difference.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
quote SB (as saying) STHquote STH (from STH)quote (SB) a price (for STH)be quoted as saying...quote STH (at STH) [finance]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “quote, unquote (spoken, to indicate irony or skepticism)”
- “the quote of the day”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Providing a price estimate for goods or services. 'We'll need a written quote before approving the project.'
Academic
Referencing a source to support an argument. 'The study quotes several leading theorists.'
Everyday
Repeating something funny or memorable someone said. 'He always quotes lines from his favourite films.'
Technical
In finance, stating the current bid and ask price of a security. 'The system provides a real-time quote for the share.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She decided to quote directly from the treaty to support her case.
- Could you quote me for repairing the conservatory roof?
American English
- The article quotes several anonymous sources.
- The contractor quoted $5,000 for the kitchen remodel.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- Not commonly used as a pure adjective. 'Quote-driven' market.
American English
- Not commonly used as a pure adjective. 'Quote-unquote' (adj. phrase).
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I like this quote from my favourite book.
- He quoted a fair price for the work.
- The journalist quoted the minister's exact words in her report.
- We are waiting for three different quotes before we choose a builder.
- She is often quoted as saying that 'change is inevitable'.
- The share price rose after positive analyst quotes were published.
- The author deftly quotes from a myriad of sources, blending classical and contemporary thought.
- The system automatically generates a binding quote based on the client's risk profile.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of writing a QUOte in your NOTEbook. Or, you need a QUOtation (price) before you BUY anything.
Conceptual Metaphor
LANGUAGE IS A COMMODITY (you can 'borrow' words), VALUE IS A NUMBER (a price quote).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'цитата' (which is correct for the noun) and 'котировка' (specific to finance/stock quotes). The verb 'цитировать' is direct. 'Quote a price' is 'назвать цену' or 'дать расценку', not a direct cognate.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect preposition: 'quote about' instead of 'quote from'. Using 'quote' as a noun where 'quotation marks' are meant (e.g., 'Put it in quotes').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'quote' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this is standard and universally accepted in modern English, though in extremely formal British writing some may still prefer 'quotation'.
It's a spoken convention to signal that the following word or phrase is being used ironically, skeptically, or not literally. It represents the act of making air quotes with your fingers.
To 'cite' is to mention as a reference or example, which may involve paraphrasing. To 'quote' is to reproduce the exact words. You can cite a source without quoting it directly.
They are often used interchangeably, but a 'quote' (or quotation) is typically a fixed, binding price offered for a job. An 'estimate' is a rough, non-binding calculation of the likely cost.