Quotation Inside Quotation

Quotation inside quotation is a common occurrence in written and spoken English. It refers to a situation where you need to include a quote within another quote. This can be confusing, especially when you don't know the right punctuation and formatting to use. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to use quotation inside quotation correctly.

The Basics of Quotation Inside Quotation

The first thing you need to understand about quotation inside quotation is that it is always enclosed in double quotation marks. For example:

"John said, 'I love pizza,' and then he added, 'My favorite topping is pepperoni.'"

In the above example, the first quote is John's direct speech, which is enclosed in single quotation marks. The second quote is what John said, which is enclosed in double quotation marks. This is how you use quotation inside quotation.

Using Quotation Inside Quotation in Different Scenarios

Quotation inside quotation can be used in different scenarios, such as:

• When quoting someone who is quoting someone else
• When quoting a written text that contains a quote
• When quoting a title that contains a quote

Let's look at each scenario in detail:

Scenario 1: Quoting Someone Who is Quoting Someone Else

When you are quoting someone who is quoting someone else, you use single quotation marks for the inner quote and double quotation marks for the outer quote. For example:

"Mary said, 'When John said, "I love you," I knew he meant it.'"

The inner quote "I love you" is enclosed in double quotation marks, while the outer quote 'When John said, "I love you," I knew he meant it.' is enclosed in single quotation marks.

Scenario 2: Quoting a Written Text that Contains a Quote

When you are quoting a written text that contains a quote, you use double quotation marks for the inner quote and single quotation marks for the outer quote. For example:

"In the book 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' Scout says, 'Atticus said, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it."'"

The inner quote "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." is enclosed in double quotation marks, while the outer quote 'Atticus said, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it."' is enclosed in single quotation marks.

Scenario 3: Quoting a Title That Contains a Quote

When you are quoting a title that contains a quote, you use single quotation marks for the inner quote and double quotation marks for the outer quote. For example:

"The song 'Bohemian Rhapsody' contains the lyrics 'Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?'"

The inner quote 'Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?' is enclosed in single quotation marks, while the outer quote "The song 'Bohemian Rhapsody' contains the lyrics 'Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?'" is enclosed in double quotation marks.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I use quotation inside quotation in academic writing?

A: Yes, you can use quotation inside quotation in academic writing. However, you need to make sure that you follow the citation rules of your academic institution and the citation style you are using. For example, in APA style, you use double quotation marks for direct quotes and single quotation marks for quotes within quotes.

Q: How do I know when to use single or double quotation marks for the inner quote?

A: You use single quotation marks for the inner quote when the outer quote is enclosed in double quotation marks, and vice versa. This is to avoid confusion and make it clear which quote is the inner quote and which one is the outer quote.

Q: Can I use quotation inside quotation in spoken English?

A: Yes, you can use quotation inside quotation in spoken English. However, you need to be careful with your intonation and make it clear to your listeners which quote is the inner quote and which one is the outer quote. Using hand gestures or facial expressions can also help to clarify your meaning.

Conclusion

Quotation inside quotation can be tricky, but with the right punctuation and formatting, you can use it correctly in your writing and speaking. Remember to use single quotation marks for the inner quote when the outer quote is enclosed in double quotation marks, and vice versa. If you are still unsure, consult a style guide or an academic writing center for guidance.