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Citation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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citation

[sสŒษชหˆteษชสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in writing

A quotation from or reference to a book, paper, or author in support of a statement, argument, or opinion.

Synonyms

quotation, quote, reference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
citation

Used mostly in academic or legal contexts to refer to a mention of a source of information.

  • The author's use of multiple citations strengthens her argument.
  • Make sure to include a citation for each reference you use in your research paper.
quotation

Best for directly repeating someone else's exact words, often used in literature or formal writing.

  • The novel starts with a poignant quotation from Shakespeare.
  • He included a quotation from the interview in his article.
reference

Used to mention sources of information and also in the context of referring to something or someone.

  • Please list all your references at the end of your essay.
  • He made a reference to the company's policies during the meeting.
quote

Often used in conversations or informal writing to refer to someone's words; it can also be a verb.

  • As the famous quote goes, 'To be or not to be, that is the question.'
  • Could you quote your favorite line from that movie?

Examples of usage

  • Her essay was full of citations from various sources.
  • The professor asked for citations to back up our research findings.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

A summons to appear in court.

Synonyms

summons, ticket.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
citation

Typically used in legal or academic contexts. In legal terms, it refers to a notice summoning someone to appear in court. In academics, it refers to a reference to a source of information.

  • The professor asked all students to include proper citations in their research papers.
  • She received a citation for failing to appear in court last month.
summons

Primarily used in a legal context to refer to an official notice ordering someone to appear in court. It has a formal and authoritative tone.

  • He was issued a summons to appear before the judge next Tuesday.
  • Failing to respond to a summons can result in a warrant for your arrest.
ticket

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to a notice of a fine for violating a rule or law, often related to traffic or parking regulations.

  • She got a parking ticket for leaving her car in a no-parking zone.
  • He was pulled over and given a speeding ticket on his way to work.

Examples of usage

  • He received a citation for speeding.
  • The police officer issued a citation for parking in a no-parking zone.
Context #3 | Noun

military

A mention of a member of the armed forces in orders or dispatches, typically as deserving of special recognition or reward.

Synonyms

award, commendation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
citation

Also used as a formal notice for a law violation, especially in the context of traffic or minor infractions (has a more negative connotation in this use).

  • He got a citation for speeding.
  • The police officer issued a citation for parking illegally.
commendation

Used to express formal praise or recognition for someone's admirable actions or achievements, usually in official or military settings.

  • She received a commendation from the company for her innovative ideas.
  • The soldier was given a commendation for his bravery in the field.
award

Given to someone as a prize or recognition for an achievement, often in ceremonies and formal events.

  • She won an award for best actress.
  • The team received an award for their outstanding performance.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier received a citation for bravery in combat.
  • The general read out the citations for the soldiers' exceptional service.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Academic Importance

  • Citations help prevent plagiarism by giving proper credit to original authors.
  • Different fields often have their own citation styles, like APA, MLA, and Chicago.
  • A well-cited paper is generally viewed as more credible and trustworthy in academic circles.

Technology

  • In academic databases, citation tools help automatically format references.
  • Online platforms often allow users to generate citations in multiple styles with just a click.
  • Citation management software (like Zotero and EndNote) assists researchers in organizing their sources.

Legal Context

  • In law, citations refer to case law and statutes, directing people to specific legal decisions.
  • Proper citation in legal documents can significantly affect outcomes in trials and appeals.
  • Judicial citations follow specific formats to ensure clear legal reference points.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and books often include citations when referencing historical events or famous quotes.
  • Some comedians play with citations humorously, creating parody texts that mimic academic styles.
  • Social media platforms now include quick-reference features, almost like digital citations for posts.

Origin of 'citation'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'citare', meaning 'to summon or quote'.
  • Evidence of the term's use dates back to the 14th century, originally referring to legal terms.
  • In academia, 'citation' became more standardized in the 20th century with the rise of research papers.

The word 'citation' originated from the Latin word 'citare', which means 'to summon'. In English, it first appeared in the 14th century with the legal sense of summoning someone to appear in court. Over time, the term expanded to include references in writing and mentions of military achievements. Today, 'citation' is widely used in academic, legal, and military contexts.

See also: cite, citer, incite, inciter.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,642 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.