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Inline quote

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

An inline quote is a direct quotation that is integrated within the flow of a writer's text, allowing the quoted material to seamlessly blend with the surrounding narrative. This technique is often used to provide evidence or support for a point being made, while maintaining the overall readability of the piece. Inline quotes are essential in journalism for enhancing credibility and adding depth to reporting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Inline quotes should be short and relevant to the surrounding text to avoid disrupting the flow of reading.
  2. Using inline quotes can make an article more engaging by directly involving voices from sources rather than just summarizing their thoughts.
  3. When using inline quotes, it is crucial to provide proper attribution to maintain journalistic integrity and avoid plagiarism.
  4. Inline quotes often require punctuation adjustments to ensure clarity and coherence with the surrounding text.
  5. Overusing inline quotes can lead to clutter in writing, so it's important to balance quoted material with original content.

Review Questions

  • How do inline quotes enhance the credibility and depth of journalistic writing?
    • Inline quotes enhance credibility by allowing journalists to incorporate the voices and perspectives of sources directly into their work. This technique provides evidence that supports claims made by the writer, showcasing authority and expertise from the quoted individuals. By blending quotes within the narrative, writers create a richer context for readers, making the content more relatable and informative.
  • Discuss the impact of improper attribution when using inline quotes in journalism.
    • Improper attribution when using inline quotes can lead to serious ethical violations, including accusations of plagiarism and misrepresentation of sources. Journalists must accurately attribute quotes to maintain transparency and uphold trust with their audience. Failure to do so undermines the integrity of the reporting and can damage the credibility of both the journalist and their publication.
  • Evaluate the role of inline quotes in balancing original content and sourced material in news articles.
    • Inline quotes play a critical role in balancing original content and sourced material by providing a way for journalists to integrate authoritative voices into their narratives without overwhelming readers with excessive quotations. This balance is essential for maintaining reader engagement while still delivering well-rounded reporting. Effective use of inline quotes enhances storytelling by adding layers of insight, all while ensuring that the journalist's voice remains prominent and clear.