cytat

Cytat is a quotation or excerpt from a spoken or written source that is reproduced verbatim. It preserves the exact wording, including any errors or idiosyncrasies, as opposed to a paraphrase which restates the ideas in different words. The term comes from the Polish verb cytować, itself derived from Latin citare, meaning to summon or to quote.

Use and conventions: Direct cytat is marked by quotation marks and a citation indicating the source and, if relevant, the page or timestamp. Indirect cytat, or paraphrase, restates the idea without reproducing the original wording. For longer quotations in many styles, a block quotation is used: the excerpt is set off as a separate block, often without quotation marks, and with a formal citation.

Typography and language: The exact punctuation and quotation marks vary by language and style guide. In Polish typography, direct quotes are typically enclosed with quotation marks, and inner quotes may use alternate marks. In English, double quotation marks are common, with single marks for quotes within quotes. Throughout, attribution should accompany the quotation so readers know the source.

Copyright and ethics: Quoting copyrighted texts is generally permissible within limits defined by copyright law, academic policy, or fair dealing/fair use, especially for short excerpts and with proper attribution. The permissible length and context depend on jurisdiction and purpose. When in doubt, seek permission for longer passages and always cite the original source.

See also: paraphrase, attribution, quotation marks.