A source’s own words can carry authority that paraphrase lacks. A quote is a direct excerpt of a speaker’s language, set off by quotation marks or clear attribution in broadcast, and included in a news story.

Accurate quotes preserve meaning and, as far as possible, the speaker’s characteristic phrasing. Journalists may clean minor stumbles according to house style, but they must not alter substance. Partial quotes and ellipses require care so that the remaining words do not distort the original sense.

Over-quoting can clutter a story; under-quoting can drain it of voice and accountability. The best uses of quotes advance understanding, capture contested claims in the speaker’s own language, or convey emotion that neutral description cannot. Verification of who said what remains non-negotiable.

• Direct excerpt of a source’s words in a story
• Must preserve meaning and accurate attribution
• Subject to house rules on cleaning speech
• Balances voice against clarity and length