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The correct noun is quotation. Sorry, this happens to be one of my pet peeves.

2006-08-22 11:31:43 · 7 answers · asked by jen_customweddingsolutions 2 in Education & Reference Quotations

7 answers

I agree - people use verbs for nouns and nouns for verbs waaaaaay too often. It's lazy writing - not taking the time to think of the correct word. My pet peeve :-)

2006-08-23 07:57:29 · answer #1 · answered by Baachan Linda 2 · 0 0

When I read your post/question, I grabbed my 2005 Webster's Unabridged Dictionary/Tome (it's too large to be called a book) and was disapointed to find that you are technically correct. All nine definitions were verbs. But I must point out that the English language, and really any language, is a somewhat subjective thing in that it changes, ebbs and flows with the times. For instance, my Webster's now lists cyberspace, web site and e-mail as legitimate English words, something that certainly does not appear in my earlier 1976 dictionary. Language is a fluid, running and changing thing. I have no doubt that eventually the word 'quote' will include a description of it as a noun. In the meantime, try not to be so persnickety! You may be branded as someone who is just a bit too draconian.Eventually the ubiquitous use of a new word, or a new way of using that word, might appear in a future dictionary, tome or otherwise.

2006-08-22 22:18:49 · answer #2 · answered by PDY 5 · 1 0

quote Pronunciation (kwt)
v. quot·ed, quot·ing, quotes
v.tr.
1. To repeat or copy the words of (another), usually with acknowledgment of the source.
2. To cite or refer to for illustration or proof.
3. To repeat a brief passage or excerpt from: The saxophonist quoted a Duke Ellington melody in his solo.
4. To state (a price) for securities, goods, or services.
v.intr.
To give a quotation, as from a book.
n.
1. Informal A quotation.
2. A quotation mark.
3. Used by a speaker to indicate the beginning of a quotation.
4. A dictum; a saying.

Informally, it is a noun. But yes, "quotation" would be a better choice. Especially in papers or essays. In everyday conversations...whatever...no one cares.

2006-08-22 18:39:34 · answer #3 · answered by jpklla 3 · 0 0

Although, informally, it is an accepted practice to use as a noun in place of quotation.

2006-08-22 18:37:46 · answer #4 · answered by ADF 5 · 0 0

I came in to the room and he says (and I quote) " where the hell have you been all night?"

Quote is a verb, it is an action word, your action is speaking exactly as was said by someone else.

Good Luck and Better Education!!!!!

2006-08-23 00:48:53 · answer #5 · answered by cowgirlbebop69 2 · 0 0

“The ability to quote is a serviceable substitute for wit.”

2006-08-22 22:13:00 · answer #6 · answered by ••Mott•• 6 · 0 0

It is called shorthand. like, BLOG. which is actually web log.

2006-08-22 20:53:23 · answer #7 · answered by wingnutrosie 3 · 0 0

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