Footnote Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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footnote
[ˈfʊtˌnoʊt ]
Definition
writing reference
A footnote is a note at the bottom of a page that offers additional information or citations for a particular part of the text. It is usually indicated by a superscript number in the main body of the text, linking it to the corresponding citation in the footnote. Footnotes serve to clarify or expand upon points raised in the main text without disrupting the flow of reading.
Synonyms
annotation, note, reference.
Examples of usage
- The author included a footnote to explain her research method.
- In his essay, he used a footnote to reference an important source.
- Footnotes can provide valuable context for complex ideas.
- Check the footnote at the bottom of the page for more details.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Academic Usage
- Footnotes are widely used in research papers to cite sources, providing credit to original authors.
- They can also include additional context or commentary to enhance the reader's understanding without crowding the main text.
Literary Significance
- Some authors use footnotes in creative ways to inject humor, sarcasm, or personal anecdotes into their writing.
- Bestselling author David Foster Wallace often utilized footnotes in his work as a unique storytelling device.
Cultural References
- In film and literature, footnotes often symbolize added depth or complexity to a narrative, inviting readers to dig deeper.
- They appear in various formats, including digital books and articles, adapting to modern publishing trends.
Design and Formatting
- Footnotes must be carefully formatted to maintain clarity; they often use smaller text to distinguish them from main content.
- Some styles, like APA or MLA, have specific guidelines on how to format footnotes and references in academic writing.
Origin of 'footnote'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'footnote' comes from the phrase 'note at the foot of the page,' reflecting its placement.
- Footnotes can be traced back to ancient texts, where scholars added comments or clarifications in the margins.
The term 'footnote' originates from the combination of the words 'foot' and 'note', and it refers to notes that are placed at the bottom of a page, effectively 'at the foot' of the written content. The practice of using footnotes can be traced back to ancient texts, where scribes would add clarifications or references to enhance understanding. The usage of footnotes became more standardized with the advent of printing in the 15th century, allowing authors to provide extensive commentary without cluttering the main text. In academic and literary contexts, footnotes have been essential in establishing credibility, providing source citations, and facilitating intellectual discourse. Over time, footnotes have evolved in format and usage, adapting to various styles of writing and publishing, but their primary function remains the same: to convey additional information unobtrusively.