cites

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cites" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of mentioning or referencing a source of information, typically in academic or formal writing. Example: "In her research paper, she cites several studies to support her argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bernadett Szél, MP and co-leader of a small Green liberal party, cites the events in Kishantos and Budapest as a prime example of the "endless cynicism" of the prime minister and his party, Fidesz, whose actions and policies set him apart in the European Union, and are setting off alarm bells in Brussels and Washington.

The Guardian

He cites HBO Now's target demographic as the 10m homes in the US that have broadband internet access but don't have cable.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He cites Lisa Opie, who he says earns more than £200,000 as controller for business, knowledge and daytime but also has a cafe business.

The Guardian

He cites Mishal Husain joining the Today programme.

The Guardian

Gildernew cites her record as Northern Ireland's agriculture minister in the devolved administration up in Belfast as reason for unionists to back her.

The Guardian

Your blog already cites other experts pointing out that the LRA has been outside Uganda for several years, is far smaller than Invisible Children try to make believe, and that the Ugandan government and army are a deeply problematic ally in their campaign.

The Guardian

The action plan cites climate change as "a key element of preventive diplomacy," aimed at preventing future violent conflicts through cooperation and dialogue.

The Guardian

Kemp believes the current care system does not cater for people until crisis hits and cites a terrible story from an older man who collapsed in the bath, could not move and was not discovered for three days.

The Guardian

Barclays, which is contesting the allegations, cites a "formal warning" notice from the FCA which has warned the bank that it "acted recklessly" in the way it disclosed the information about the fees and in so doing breached some of the rules governing the way shares are listed on the stock exchange.

The Guardian - Business

Her study cites a review of 4,076 NGOs that have addressed wartime sexual violence.

The Guardian

In it Farley, who has written for the Guardian and is a member of the ostensibly progressive Warren Group in the US, cites historical precedent to suggest that African Americans should favour gun rights.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cites" to add authority to your writing by showing you have researched and considered various perspectives.

Common error

Avoid vague references. Saying something is "often cited" without specifying the original source weakens your argument. Provide a specific, verifiable citation.

Linguistic Context

Cites primarily functions as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of "cite". It indicates that a subject is referencing or mentioning a source to support a claim or provide evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "cites" is a versatile and commonly used verb that indicates the act of referencing a source. According to Ludwig AI, "cites" is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is prevalent in news, business, and academic writing, serving to bolster arguments and acknowledge sources. While alternatives like "references", "mentions", and "quotes" exist, "cites" offers a balance of formality and clarity. Remember to provide complete citation information to avoid any potential credibility loss. Also, be aware of when you can "cite" a source without "quoting" it directly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

references

Implies a more direct and formal connection to the source material.

attributes

Specifically assigns a statement or idea to a particular person or source.

mentions

A more general term for bringing something to attention without necessarily providing a full reference.

refers to

Directs the audience to consider the content of a source.

quotes

Indicates the exact words from a source are being used.

indicates

Suggests that something is shown or signaled by the source.

points out

Highlights a specific detail or fact from a source.

draws attention to

Focuses on a specific aspect mentioned in a source.

alludes to

Indirectly references something, implying a connection without stating it explicitly.

names

Simply identifies the source.

FAQs

How to use "cites" in a sentence?

You can use "cites" to indicate that you are referencing a source in your writing. For example, "The author "cites" several studies to support their argument."

What can I say instead of "cites"?

You can use alternatives like "references", "mentions", or "quotes" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "cites" or "cite"?

"Cites" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "cite". Use "cites" when the subject is a singular noun or pronoun like "he", "she", or "it". For example, "The report "cites" several experts."

What's the difference between "cites" and "quotes"?

"Cites" generally refers to mentioning a source or providing a reference. "Quotes" specifically refers to using the exact words from a source. You can "cite" a source without "quoting" it directly.