B1noun2K

Quotation

UK /["/kwəʊˈteɪʃn/"]/US /["/kwəʊˈteɪʃn/"]/

Definition

a group of words or a short piece of writing taken from a book, play, speech, etc. and repeated because it is interesting or useful

In simple words: A group of words someone has said or written, often taken from a book or speech.

Examples

  • She included a famous quotation from Shakespeare in her essay.
  • The teacher asked us to find a quotation that illustrates the theme of friendship.
  • In his book, he provides a quotation at the beginning of each chapter.
  • The artist was inspired by a quotation that urged people to follow their dreams.
  • When I need motivation, I often look for a good quotation to inspire me.

Usage notes

Used when referring to someone else's words. Ideal for essays or formal writing. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

quotation + (of) + quote

Memory hint

Think of 'quote' and the 'tion' suffix, as in a 'collection of quotes'.

Collocations

  • famous
  • memorable
  • direct
  • take
  • attribute
  • cite
  • come from something
  • marks
  • quotation from
  • written
  • free
  • detailed
  • give (somebody)
  • provide (somebody with)
  • supply (somebody with)
  • quotation for

Synonyms

  • estimate

Antonyms

  • silence
  • speechlessness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'quote' — remember 'quotation' is the noun.
  • Using it in informal contexts where it sounds too formal.
  • Mistaking 'quotation' for just any statement — it's specific to cited sources.