Blog

Cite

Meaning:

Cite means to reference or mention a source of information, typically used in academic, legal, or research contexts. It can also mean to quote or refer to someone or something, often to provide evidence or support for a claim.

---

History and Origins:

The word “cite” comes from the Latin citare, meaning “to summon, call, or provoke,” which later evolved to mean “to quote or refer to.” It was used in legal contexts in the early 15th century and expanded to academic and general use over time.

Definitions and Meaning in English:

1. To reference a source: To mention or quote a source, often in academic or professional writing, to give credit or provide support for an argument.
2. To quote or mention: To refer to a person, event, or piece of information in a manner that acknowledges its origin or significance.
3. To summon legally: To officially call someone to appear in court or take legal action.

Detailed Explanation:

“Cite” is most commonly used in academic, professional, and legal contexts where a person refers to a work or document to support their arguments, ideas, or actions. In writing, it means to reference books, articles, websites, or other works to provide evidence for a claim. Proper citation is essential in maintaining academic integrity and avoiding plagiarism. In law, “cite” can also mean formally calling someone to appear in court or referring to a previous case as a precedent.

Example Sentences:

1. The student was required to cite all sources used in the research paper to avoid plagiarism.
2. In her speech, she cited several historical figures to strengthen her argument.
3. The lawyer cited previous court decisions to support the case in front of the judge.

Synonyms with Short Explanation:

1. Reference: To mention or provide details about a source of information.
2. Quote: To repeat words from a source, usually with exact wording, to support a statement.
3. Mention: To briefly refer to something or someone in passing.

Related Words with Short Explanation:

1. Attribution: The act of acknowledging the original source of information or ideas.
2. Citation: The formal reference to a source, typically used in academic or legal contexts.
3. Acknowledgment: The act of recognizing or giving credit to a source or person.

More Matches with Short Explanation:

1. Footnote: A reference placed at the bottom of a page to cite sources or provide additional information.
2. Bibliography: A list of cited works included at the end of an academic paper.
3. Endnote: A note placed at the end of a document to cite sources or provide further explanations.

Antonyms:

1. Ignore: To deliberately overlook or fail to reference something or someone.
2. Plagiarize: To take someone else’s work or ideas without proper citation or acknowledgment.
3. Disregard: To not consider or give attention to a source, idea, or argument that should be referenced.