What does "cites" mean?

1. (to mention a source) to mention a book, a person, or a report as a way to prove that what you are saying is true. 2. (to give a reason) to give something as a reason or an example for why something happened.

How do you use "cites"?

Commonly used in the third-person singular ('cites') when discussing an author's work. Often used in news reporting and formal business contexts.

cites

US //ˈsaɪts// UK //sˈaɪts// cites

1 to mention a source (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Formal Academic

to mention a book, a person, or a report as a way to prove that what you are saying is true.

to quote or refer to a passage, book, or author as evidence for an argument. Transitive — requires a direct object.

Example

The student cites several famous scientists in her essay to support her ideas.

Example

In his latest publication, the researcher cites over fifty peer-reviewed articles to establish a firm foundation for his controversial hypothesis.

Usage

Commonly used in the third-person singular ('cites') when discussing an author's work.
- ignore
- disregard
2 to give a reason (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

to give something as a reason or an example for why something happened.

to bring forward or adduce as a reason, example, or proof in support of a claim.

Example

The report cites bad weather as the main cause of the accident.

Example

The CEO cites the sudden shift in global market trends as the primary justification for the company's recent restructuring.

Usage

Often used in news reporting and formal business contexts.

Last updated June 20, 2026