What is the Difference Between a Quotation and a Citation?

Index

This help page provides the following information:

• A Quick Definition Between Quotations and Citations
• An Example of a Quotation versus a Citation
• Additional Information on Quotations and Citations

Quick Definition

One of the most succinct explanations that I have seen on the difference between these two concept comes from Boundless:  

A citation is using a particular idea that you got from another author. A quotation is using the exact words of another author.

Note that some people refer to a "citation" as a "paraphrase."

Example

Here is an example of both, using source text that comes from a Government of Canada website:

Original text:   What are industrial designs? If you're producing distinctive-looking new products, you'll want to register your designs. Industrial designs are product features that appeal to the eye. They can be a new shape for the hood or fenders of a car, the original pattern in a woven sweater or all of the visual features of a computer monitor. A product's visual appeal gives it a competitive edge, setting it apart from others and making it the one people will buy.
Example of a Citation (Paraphrase):	Example of a Quotation:
The Government of Canada explains that industrial designs are products with unique features--products that are different in shape, pattern, or design.	The Government of Canada explains that "[i]ndustrial designs are product features that appeal to the eye. They can be a new shape for the hood or fenders of a car, the original pattern in a woven sweater or all of the visual features of a computer monitor. A product's visual appeal gives it a competitive edge, setting it apart from others and making it the one people will buy."

 * Observe that these quotations and citations fit in to make a grammatically-correct sentence.

More Info

The following website(s) provide more information on the difference between quotations and citations:

Website	Comments
Boundless: Using Quotations versus Citations ★★★★★	This is a great resource because it provides a succinct explanation, followed by an example, followed by more detailed information.