What is a quotation?

A quotation is defined as a group of words taken from a text and repeated by someone else. This definition emphasizes the act of using the exact phrasing from a source, which can signify the importance of those words in conveying an author's original thought or style. Quotations are often used in various forms of writing and speaking to provide evidence, support an argument, or to share an impactful idea directly from the source. They also help to maintain the authenticity of the original material, allowing readers or listeners to engage with the author's unique voice or perspective. Recognizing a quotation involves understanding that it is not a summary or paraphrase but a direct reproduction of the text as it was written or spoken.