The word "misquote" is spelled with the prefix "mis-" meaning "incorrectly" and the root word "quote" meaning "to repeat or copy the exact words of someone else." The phonetic transcription of "misquote" is /mɪsˈkwot/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "qu" in "quote" is pronounced like "kw," and the final "e" is silent. Misquoting can happen intentionally or unintentionally, and it can be detrimental to one's credibility, especially in academic or professional settings.
Misquote (verb):
To misquote means to inaccurately reproduce or represent someone's exact words, usually by unintentionally or intentionally altering or distorting their original statement. It involves quoting or attributing words to a person that they did not actually say or misrepresenting the intended meaning of their statement. This can occur due to errors in recollection, misinterpretation, or deliberate manipulation of the original wording.
Misquoting can lead to misunderstandings, as it falsely attributes words or ideas to a particular individual, group, or source. It can occur in various forms of communication, such as written articles, speeches, interviews, or social media posts. Misquoting may arise from a lack of accurate information, bias, or misleading intentions.
In the realm of journalism, misquoting can be detrimental to a person's reputation and credibility, as their statements may be taken out of context or distorted. It is considered unethical and unprofessional for journalists, writers, or researchers to misquote their sources, as it compromises the integrity of the information being shared.
To avoid misquoting, it is essential to carefully listen or read the original words, taking note of their context and intended meaning, and reproduce them accurately when referencing or incorporating them in any written or spoken form. Fact-checking and verifying sources can help ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information being disseminated.
To cite or quote incorrectly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "misquote" is derived from the combination of two root words: "mis-" and "quote".
The prefix "mis-" comes from the Old English prefix "mis-" or "miss-", which means "wrongly" or "badly". It is commonly used to indicate an incorrect or inaccurate action. It can also suggest a negative or negative connotation.
The word "quote" originates from the Late Latin word "quotare", which means "to mark or number". In English, it evolved to refer to the act of reproducing someone's words verbatim or citing them accurately.
Therefore, when combined, "mis-" and "quote" create "misquote", which means to inaccurately or wrongly reproduce someone's words or to mistakenly attribute a quotation to someone.