issue a citation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "issue a citation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts when referring to the act of formally notifying someone of a violation or infraction, often in relation to laws or regulations. Example: "The officer decided to issue a citation for the parking violation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

He said he would return later to investigate and possibly issue a citation to the violator.

The Washington Post

But if state law defines the crime, it may also forbid the arrest and tell officers to simply issue a citation.

Cornell University

She said that the department would issue a citation to the manager of 1 Times Square, Sherwood Equities, for carrying out facade work without a permit, and that its most recent permit expired in 2001.

The New York Times

Inspectors could issue a citation if they saw different parties snacking from the same container of cheese or if a bartender failed to put out a new container each time new customers bellied up, she said.

The New York Times

If the administration refuses to comply with the subpoena, the Judiciary Committee could issue a citation for contempt of Congress, followed by a similar citation from the full Congress.

The Washington Post

"They came across as though they had to issue a citation just because there was additional mining that had not been shown on that map, even though they're not sure how we would have determined that at the time," Mr. Musser said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The contractor, Bedroc Contracting, was issued a citation alleging unsafe practices.

The New York Times

The bus driver was not charged or issued a citation, the police said.

The New York Times

He was arrested for having drug paraphernalia on Feb. 6 and issued a citation.

The Washington Post

The leader was issued a citation for creating hazardous conditions in the parks.

The New York Times

The police said that Mr. Pedersen would not be issued a citation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "issue a citation", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific violation or regulation that was breached to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions with "citation". It is more appropriate to say "issue a citation for a violation" rather than "issue a citation of a violation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "issue a citation" functions as a performative verb phrase, indicating that the act of issuing a formal notice is being performed. Ludwig AI affirms this is correct. The action is generally undertaken by someone with legal authority.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "issue a citation" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that signifies the formal notification of a violation. As Ludwig AI underlines, this phrase functions as a performative verb, predominantly used in news and media contexts, with academic and scientific domains following. The phrase aims to formally inform someone of wrongdoing and potential penalties, making it crucial to clearly specify the violated rule. Remember to avoid using incorrect prepositions such as "citation of", which is a less frequent pattern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a ticket

Replaces "citation" with "ticket", a more informal term for a violation notice, typically for traffic offenses.

write a ticket

Similar to "give a ticket", emphasizing the act of physically creating the violation notice.

serve a notice of violation

More formal; emphasizes the delivery of an official notice regarding a rule or law that has been broken.

levy a fine

Focuses on the financial penalty associated with the violation, rather than the notification itself.

deliver a violation

Emphasizes the act of delivering a notice of wrongdoing.

impose a penalty

Broader term; indicates that some form of punishment is being applied for the infraction.

administer a penalty

Highlights the formal application of a punishment.

hand out a summons

Suggests a legal document requiring the recipient to appear in court.

file a charge

Indicates the initiation of legal proceedings against someone.

slap with a fine

Informal; implies a sudden and possibly unwelcome imposition of a financial penalty.

FAQs

What does "issue a citation" mean?

To "issue a citation" means to formally notify someone that they have violated a law or regulation, typically resulting in a fine or other penalty.

What's the difference between "give a ticket" and "issue a citation"?

"Give a ticket" is generally used for minor infractions like traffic violations, while "issue a citation" is a more formal term that can apply to a wider range of violations.

Can a civilian "issue a citation", or is it only for law enforcement?

Typically, only authorized personnel such as law enforcement officers, building inspectors, or other officials can "issue a citation", as it requires legal authority.

What are the consequences of receiving a citation?

The consequences vary depending on the nature of the violation, but may include fines, mandatory court appearances, points on a driving record, or other penalties.