Quotes vs Statement

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Quotes

Top 1,000 (very common)

Statement

Top 2,000 (common)A1noun
Most common: Quotes
 QuotesStatement
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //kwəʊts//🇺🇸 //koʊts//🇬🇧 /["/ˈsteɪtmənt/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈsteɪtmənt/"]/
MeaningShort sentences or phrases that someone has saidA clear expression of something in words.
ExampleThe teacher shared several inspiring quotes with the class.The statement on the wall explained the museum's rules.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 1,000 (very common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR level-A1
Part of speechnoun
Collocationsfamous quotes, inspirational quotes, quote of the day, direct quote, paraphrase a quotebrief, short, bald, issue, put out, release, condemn, in a/​the statement, statement about, statement on, brief, short, bald, issue, put out, release, condemn, in a/​the statement, statement about, statement on, bank, credit-card, tax, prepare, publish, file
Antonymssilence, disparagesilence, question
Common mistakesConfused with 'quotes' as a noun and 'quote' as a verb., Using quotes without proper attribution., Misquoting someone by altering their words.'Statement' is often wrongly used as a verb., Confused with 'statements' when referring to multiple examples., Misunderstanding the context; it should not be used for casual opinions.
Usage notesTypically used in writing and speech to refer to someone's exact words. Suitable for formal and informal contexts.Use 'statement' in both spoken and written contexts to convey information or opinions. It is appropriate in formal discussions and reporting but may feel overly formal in casual conversations.

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Quotes
Statement

Frequently asked questions: Quotes vs Statement

What's the difference between Quotes and Statement?

Quotes: Short sentences or phrases that someone has said Statement: A clear expression of something in words.

Which is more common: Quotes and Statement?

Quotes is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

Quotes: The teacher shared several inspiring quotes with the class. Statement: The statement on the wall explained the museum's rules.

Can I use Quotes and Statement interchangeably?

Not always. Quotes and Statement are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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