sitaatit

Sitaatit is the Finnish term for quotations, referring to the words spoken or written by someone else. In general use, a sitaatti is a reproduction of another person’s words to convey their exact meaning or to support an argument. Quotes can be direct, where the original wording is reproduced verbatim, or indirect (paraphrased), where the meaning is conveyed without exact phrasing. Longer passages may be presented as block quotes or indented excerpts in texts.

In journalism, scholarship, and literature, proper attribution is essential. Direct quotes are typically attributed to their source and are often accompanied by contextual information such as date, location, or publication. Indirect quotes require careful paraphrasing and clear indication that the wording has been altered. The handling of translations, timing of quotes, and respect for copyright are common considerations in the use of sitaatit.

Sitaatit also appear as curated collections, epigraphs, or notable lines within books, articles, or websites. Anthologies, reference works, and digital databases frequently compile quotes to illustrate themes, ideas, or the voices of particular authors. In digital contexts, quotes are indexed and cross-referenced to sources, authors, and publications, enabling verification and further reading. Misattribution and quotation errors are ongoing concerns, underscoring the importance of careful sourcing and verification in the use of sitaatit.

See also: quotation, quotation marks, citation, epigraph, attribution.