Citativeness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word is derived from 'cite', which comes from the Latin word 'citare', meaning 'to summon or call'.
• Originally used in legal contexts, 'citativeness' reflects the practice of referring to authority when arguing in court.
• In academic writing, the term became more prevalent as citation styles became standardized in the 20th century.

Literature

• Authors often create memorable quotes to enhance their credibility and engage readers, making their work more 'citable'.
• Famous works are frequently referenced across literature courses, showcasing their 'citativeness'.
• Literary criticism often revolves around analyzing the quotes and citations used by authors to build their arguments.

Academic Influence

• In academia, higher citation rates are linked to increased visibility and impact of research work.
• Scholarly articles often have citation metrics that determine their influence in a particular field.
• Citations are essential for building upon previous knowledge, creating a continuum of research and ideas.

Social Media

• In today's digital age, social media has transformed how citations are utilized, making sharing ideas instant and viral.
• Influential figures online often use quotable phrases to gain traction, demonstrating their own 'citativeness'.
• Platforms like Twitter and Instagram amplify powerful messages by allowing users to quote or refer back to original sources easily.

Psychology

• The practice of quoting authoritative sources can increase persuasive power, a key concept in psychological studies of rhetoric.
• People tend to remember ideas better when they are associated with well-known quotes or references.
• Citativeness can enhance trust, as individuals are more likely to accept claims supported by credible sources.