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cita textual means direct quote — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 27, 2025

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

cita textual

noun • /[SEE-ta teks-TWAL]/

direct quote

Example:

Incluye una cita textual del autor.

Include a direct quote from the author.

🧠 What does cita textual mean?

A 'cita textual', which translates to 'direct quote', is the exact, word-for-word reproduction of a phrase or passage from a text or speech. In academic and formal writing, it is enclosed in quotation marks ('comillas') and is used to provide evidence, support an argument, or present an author's precise words. This term is fundamental for research papers, essays, and journalistic articles to ensure accuracy and properly attribute sources.

📚 Extra examples

  • El ensayo debe incluir al menos una cita textual de la novela.
    The essay must include at least one direct quote from the novel.
  • Para evitar el plagio, es crucial formatear correctamente cada cita textual.
    To avoid plagiarism, it is crucial to format each direct quote correctly.
  • El artículo periodístico comenzaba con una impactante cita textual del presidente.
    The news article began with a striking direct quote from the president.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'cita textual' refers specifically to a quote, the word 'cita' by itself is very common and versatile in Spanish. It can mean a medical appointment ('una cita con el médico'), a business meeting ('una cita de negocios'), or a romantic date ('una cita romántica'). The context and accompanying words are key to understanding its meaning.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "cita textual"

Synonyms: cita directa, cita literal, reproducción literal
Opposites: paráfrasis, resumen, cita indirecta

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'direct quote' in Spanish?
The most common and precise way to say 'direct quote' in Spanish is 'cita textual'. You might also hear 'cita directa'.
How do you pronounce 'cita textual' in Spanish?
It is pronounced 'SEE-tah tex-TWAL'. The 'c' in 'cita' is soft, like the 's' sound in 'see'. The stress falls on the first syllable of 'cita' and the last syllable of 'textual'.
How do you use 'cita textual' in a sentence?
An example is: 'El profesor nos enseñó a integrar una cita textual en el párrafo.' This means, 'The professor taught us how to integrate a direct quote into the paragraph.'
What is the English translation of 'cita textual'?
The English translation of 'cita textual' is 'direct quote' or 'verbatim quote'.
Does 'cita textual' change for gender or number?
Yes, it does. 'Cita' is a feminine noun. The plural form is 'citas textuales', where both the noun and the adjective become plural.
Is 'cita textual' common in everyday Spanish?
No, it is not common in casual, everyday conversation. Its use is primarily restricted to academic, literary, and journalistic contexts.
Does 'cita textual' have slang or double meanings?
The phrase 'cita textual' itself is a formal term with no slang or alternative meanings. However, the word 'cita' alone can mean 'appointment' or 'date', so the adjective 'textual' is essential for clarity.
Is 'cita textual' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the term 'cita textual' is used and understood consistently across the entire Spanish-speaking world in its specific academic and formal context.

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