Translation guide
How to express 'cite' in Japanese, covering quoting sources, citing as evidence, and legal/military summons.
To refer to or reproduce words from a book, article, or person.
The most common and general verb for quoting or citing a source in academic, formal, or everyday contexts.
He cited many references in his paper.
This article cites official data.
A more casual verb meaning 'to quote' or 'to look up', often used for dictionaries or short references.
I looked up the dictionary and checked the example sentence.
Formal term for citing or invoking a precedent, rule, or authority, mainly in legal or academic arguments.
The lawyer cited a precedent to support his argument.
To mention something as proof, support, or an instance of a point.
Means 'to give/raise an example'. Very common when citing instances or cases.
Please explain by citing an example.
He cited several reasons.
Means 'to mention' or 'refer to'. Used when citing something briefly without detailed quotation.
The report cites the issue.
To officially order someone to appear in court or receive a legal summons.
Use 引用する when directly reproducing words or text. Use 挙げる when simply mentioning an example or reason without exact wording.
To cite his words, 'Effort never betrays you.'
He cited an example of effort.
For court summons, use 召喚する. 引用する only means 'to quote'.
To bring up something as an example or reference, often in conversation or informal argument.
He often cites past success stories.
The police cited the suspect to appear.