Indirect quote

Definition

An indirect quote is a paraphrase of someone's statement, summarizing the essence of what they said without using their exact words. This type of quote allows writers to convey the main idea or sentiment expressed by the source while maintaining their own voice and style, making it useful for integrating information smoothly into a narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Indirect quotes do not require quotation marks since they are not verbatim statements from the source.
2. Using indirect quotes can help writers avoid overusing direct quotes, allowing for a more cohesive narrative flow.
3. When using an indirect quote, it is essential to accurately convey the meaning of the original statement to avoid misrepresentation.
4. Indirect quotes can enhance a writer's credibility by demonstrating understanding and interpretation of the source material.
5. Attribution is still necessary with indirect quotes to give proper credit to the original speaker or source.

Review Questions

• How does an indirect quote differ from a direct quote, and why might a writer choose to use one over the other?
  • An indirect quote paraphrases a speaker's ideas without using their exact words, while a direct quote reproduces their statements verbatim. A writer may choose to use an indirect quote to maintain their own voice, provide a smoother integration into their writing, or avoid over-reliance on direct quotes. This approach allows for greater flexibility in expressing concepts while still acknowledging the original source.
• Discuss the importance of attribution when using indirect quotes in writing. What impact does proper attribution have on credibility?
  • Attribution is crucial when using indirect quotes because it gives credit to the original source and shows respect for their ideas. Proper attribution enhances credibility by allowing readers to verify information and understand its context. It demonstrates ethical writing practices and helps to establish trust between the writer and their audience, reinforcing the validity of the claims being made.
• Evaluate how the use of indirect quotes can influence a writer's narrative style and effectiveness in conveying information.
  • The use of indirect quotes can significantly influence a writer's narrative style by allowing for a more fluid and engaging presentation of ideas. By paraphrasing rather than quoting directly, writers can tailor information to better fit their voice, making complex concepts more accessible. This technique can enhance effectiveness by focusing on key messages without being bogged down by lengthy or cumbersome quotations, ultimately improving reader comprehension and retention.

Related terms

direct quote:

A direct quote is the exact wording of a speaker's statement, enclosed in quotation marks, that preserves the original phrasing and tone.

attribution: Attribution refers to the act of identifying the source of a quote or information, giving credit to the individual or organization that provided the original statement.

paraphrase: A paraphrase involves restating someone else's ideas in your own words while retaining the original meaning, similar to an indirect quote but often more detailed.