Quote

What is a Quote?

A quote is a person's statement reproduced verbatim. In media and communication it makes content concrete, credible and vivid – and binds the quoted person to their words.

Quote in Detail

The quote reproduces a statement in its exact wording, marked by quotation marks (in text) or as a soundbite (on radio and TV). Quotes are central in journalism and communication: they substantiate statements, give people a voice and make pieces credible and vivid. For the quoted person this means opportunity and responsibility at once: a concise, clear quote can convey a message effectively and often becomes the most noticed element – whereas an ill-considered quote can have a lasting after-effect, because the verbatim word is hard to take back. Correct, faithful reproduction is important; in the print field in German-speaking countries, quotes are often submitted for authorization. Those who want to communicate in a quotable way phrase key statements concisely, intelligibly on their own and to the point – this is how good quotes arise. Quotes are closely linked to the soundbite, the supporting quote and the authorization loop and are a central element of effective media work.

In practice, the quote is the verbatim or faithful reproduction of a statement in a media piece – and particularly sensitive for the quoted person, because it shows them directly and by name in public. A concise, good quote can convey your own message effectively; an ill-considered quote taken out of context, by contrast, can do considerable damage. Therefore: phrase deliberately, make clear statements that are intelligible on their own, and keep in mind that in principle everything can be quoted, including subordinate remarks. In German-speaking countries, quote authorization is customary for print interviews, allowing you to review quotes before publication. Those who want to speak in a quotable way phrase things short, clear and to the point – this increases the chance of being reproduced correctly and in the intended sense.

What is a quote used for?

A quote reproduces a statement in its exact wording and makes content credible and vivid. Those who want to communicate in a quotable way phrase key statements concisely and intelligibly on their own – because a clear quote conveys the message effectively and is often picked up.

Quote – Examples in Practice

A newspaper reproduces a manager's key statement as a verbatim quote. An expert phrases his message deliberately in a quotable way. A spokesperson has her quote authorized before print.

Quote: Key Features at a Glance

• Definition: statement reproduced verbatim
• Marking: quotation marks or soundbite
• Benefit: credible, vivid, substantiating
• Responsibility: the word binds and has an after-effect
• Success: concise, quotable phrasing

Related Terms

• Soundbite (O-Ton)
• Supporting Quote
• Authorization Loop
• Print Interview
• Right of Reply

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Quote: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a quote?

A person's statement reproduced verbatim – marked with quotation marks in text, and as a soundbite on radio and TV.

Why are quotes important?

Because they substantiate statements, give people a voice and make pieces credible and vivid – they often become the most noticed element.

How do you phrase a good quote?

Concisely, clearly and intelligibly on its own – this is how quotable statements arise that convey your own message effectively.

Are quotes authorized?

In the German-speaking print field, often yes: quotes are submitted for approval (the authorization loop). The scope and rules should be clarified in advance.