Footnoting: meaning, definitions and examples

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footnoting

 

[ˈfʊtˌnoʊtɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

academic writing

Footnoting is a method of citing sources and providing additional information or commentary within a written work. It typically appears at the bottom of a page, allowing readers to easily reference the source material or gain further insights without disrupting the flow of the main text. This method is commonly used in academic disciplines, particularly in the humanities, where it’s important to credit original ideas and provide relevant background information. Proper footnoting aids in academic integrity by allowing readers to trace the origin of thoughts and claims made in the text.

Synonyms

citation, endnote, referencing.

Examples of usage

  • The researcher used footnoting to cite her sources diligently.
  • Footnoting in historical essays can enhance the depth of analysis.
  • Academic journals often require strict adherence to footnoting styles.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'footnote' comes from the practice of placing notes at the bottom ('foot') of a page in manuscripts.
  • Historically, footnotes began to appear in printed books in the 16th century as a way to provide additional context without interrupting the main text.

Literature

  • Many classic writers, like Shakespeare, used margins for notes, but the formal footnote style we know was established later.
  • Modern novels sometimes intentionally leave out footnotes to challenge readers or create an immersive experience.

Science

  • Footnotes are crucial in scientific research papers, where they help clarify methodologies or cite sources without cluttering the main text.
  • In some scientific disciplines, footnoting is required to maintain transparency and provide necessary references for findings.

Education

  • Teachers often encourage students to use footnotes to enhance their understanding of complex concepts and texts during studies.
  • Footnoting helps learners trace the origins of ideas, making the research process more transparent and educational.

Pop Culture

  • Footnotes have made appearances in various TV shows and movies, often used humorously to highlight ridiculous facts that aren't part of the main story.
  • In graphic novels, footnotes can add quirky, ironic commentary on the main storyline, appealing to audiences who enjoy detailed narratives.

Translations

Translations of the word "footnoting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 notação de rodapé

🇮🇳 पाद टिप्पणी

🇩🇪 Fußnotierung

🇮🇩 catatan kaki

🇺🇦 виноска

🇵🇱 przypis dolny

🇯🇵 脚注付け

🇫🇷 note de bas de page

🇪🇸 nota al pie

🇹🇷 dipnotlama

🇰🇷 각주

🇸🇦 التعليق السفلي

🇨🇿 poznámka pod čarou

🇸🇰 poznámka pod čiarou

🇨🇳 脚注

🇸🇮 opomba pod črto

🇮🇸 fótnotur

🇰🇿 аяқсөз

🇬🇪 ფეხსაცმელი

🇦🇿 ayaq notu

🇲🇽 nota al pie