in quotes

USAGE SUMMARY

Using a phrase "in quotes" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that the phrase is being quoted or to add emphasis to a specific word or phrase. Example 1: The company's motto, "Quality over quantity," has become their guiding principle. Example 2: I couldn't help but notice the sign on the door that read "No Entry." Example 3: The teacher reminded the students to use "please" and "thank you" when speaking to others.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just that, in quotes, and the picture.

The New Yorker

It was wiretapped in quotes.

The Washington Post

[Emphasis in quotes was added].

The Guardian

Phelan's original titles appear in quotes.

Harvard University

The message should be in quotes.

University of California, Berkeley

Maginnis's original folder titles appear in quotes.

Harvard University

Yes, plays the turntable – not in quotes.

University of California, Berkeley

Avoid using slang too, unless in quotes.

The Guardian

(Headline & passages in quotes, from the "Times").

The New Yorker

Put exact phrases in quotes: "life of pi".

Columbia University

I am also interested in quotes and cartoons about viruses.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in quotes" to draw attention to specific words or phrases that might be interpreted differently without the added emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "in quotes" excessively for mere emphasis, as it can dilute its impact and make your writing seem less confident. Reserve it for actual quotations or instances where the term's meaning is intentionally skewed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in quotes" primarily functions as a meta-commentary device, indicating that a word, phrase, or statement is being presented within quotation marks. Ludwig examples illustrate it's used both literally and figuratively to highlight direct quotes or to express skepticism about a term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

34%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in quotes" is a versatile tool used to signal that a word or phrase is being quoted, emphasized, or used in a non-standard way. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While "in quotes" is frequently used, it is important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse that can dilute its impact. Understanding its function and appropriate contexts can significantly enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In quotation

A shorter form, focusing on the act of quoting.

Within quotation marks

Specifies the typographical markers used.

Using quotation marks

Focuses on the use of punctuation.

Cited directly

Highlights the directness of the citation.

As a direct quote

Identifies the statement as a verbatim extract.

Quoting directly

Highlights the act of directly quoting a source.

Quoted verbatim

Emphasizes exactness of the quotation.

Enclosed in quotation marks

Describes the placement of the phrase within quotes.

Verbatim

Single word emphasizing exactness of quote.

To quote

Introduces a direct quotation.

FAQs

How do I use "in quotes" in a sentence?

Use "in quotes" to indicate that a word or phrase is being directly quoted, or to suggest it is being used in a non-standard or ironic way. For example, "The term 'organic' is often used "in quotes" when its true meaning is debatable."

When should I use italics instead of "in quotes"?

Use italics for emphasis, titles of works, or foreign words. Reserve "in quotes" for direct quotations, ironic use, or to indicate skepticism about a term. For example, "The so-called 'expert' was actually a novice."

What's the difference between using single quotes and double quotes?

Double quotes are typically used for direct quotations. Single quotes are often used for 'quotes within quotes' or to indicate a meaning different from the standard definition, similar to using the phrase "in quotes".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "in quotes"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "quoted verbatim", "within quotation marks", or "cited directly" to convey a similar meaning.