ENGLISH
REFERENCE

citing

v. · n.
US //ˈsaɪtɪŋ// UK //sˈaɪtɪŋ// cit·ing
  1. 1 referring to a source (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    mentioning a book, author, or study to support your ideas.

    referencing a specific source, such as a text or author, to provide evidence or authority for a claim. Transitive; requires a direct object.

    Example

    She is citing several famous scientists in her research paper to prove her point.

    Example

    The student was careful about citing every primary source used in the dissertation to avoid any accusations of academic dishonesty.

  2. 2 giving a reason (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    mentioning something as a reason why something else happened.

    mentioning or bringing forward something as a reason, justification, or example. Often used in formal reporting or legal contexts.

    Example

    The company closed the factory, citing high costs and low sales.

    Example

    The judge dismissed the case, citing a lack of physical evidence and inconsistent witness testimony.

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  1. 3 a reference (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    the act of naming a source or a specific mention of a rule.

    the act of citation or a specific instance of referencing a source or legal authority.

    Example

    The lawyer's citing of previous cases helped the jury understand the law.

    Example

    The constant citing of obscure regulations made the contract difficult for the average person to read.

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