Definition
A direct quotation is when you use someone else's exact words in your own writing or speech. Think of it like hitting copy-paste on their brain 🧠. It's different from paraphrasing, where you reword their ideas. Direct quotes are always enclosed in quotation marks "" to show they aren't your original thoughts. Use them to add authority or emphasize a point, like dropping receipts in an argument 🧾. It’s like using a sample in music – recognizable and impactful. They're the opposite of summarizing; you're going granular.