Here’s Some Insight on Cite, Site, and Sight
Cite,” “site,” and “sight” are homophones, leading to confusion and incorrect use. We’ll teach you what these words mean and how to always use them properly.
What’s the Difference Between “Cite,” “Site,” and “Sight”?
- Cite can only function as a verb and refers to “quoting something by way of example or proof to support your argument.”Our findings were cited in several of the most prestigious science journals
- Site can function as a verb and noun and has to do with the location or placement of something
- They showed us the proposed site of the new building
- Sight can also play the role of both a verb and noun, and has to do with the ability to see. We caught sight of several different types of whales.
-
“Cite” vs. “Site” vs. “Sight”
No, that’s not gibberish; it’s English. And that sentence makes complete sense if you know the difference between cite, site, and sight.
If you don’t know the difference between these three homophones, don’t worry. We’ll go over their definitions and provide example sentences below.
“Cite”–Definition & Examples
Cite can only ever be used as a verb. It means “to quote something by way of example or authority to support what you’re saying.”
Many students are taught how to cite when writing to avoid plagiarism. This means they write an exact quote, paraphrase, or directly reference a passage from a book, author, or any other type of source (and give them credit).
Cite can also mean “to officially or authoritatively order someone to appear in court.”
Students may be familiar with what a citation is: a reference to a book, paper, or author in academic writing.
Or maybe you’ve unfortunately received a citation, which can also be a summons to appear in court.
In any case, knowing what a citation is can help you remember how to spell cite.
“Site”–Definition & Examples
Site can function as both a noun and a verb.
As a noun, site refers to a location. It can be “a place where a building or set of structures is or will be situated.” It can also be a place where something has happened or that is used for a specific activity.
As a verb, site means “to put something in a certain place or particular position.”
It’s also common for site to refer to a website.
“Sight”–Definition & Examples
Sight can also function as a noun and verb, and in both instances, have to do with seeing (think eyesight).
As a noun, sight refers to “the function of seeing.” Sight is also used when talking about places or things that are regarded as “worth seeing.”
When used as a verb, sight means “to suddenly see something.”
“Sight” can refer to “eyesight.”
Do You Have Your Sight on Flawless Writing?
- Cite has to do with citations.
- Site mostly refers to where something is situated.
- Sight indicates something with vision or eyesight.
LanguageTool has been cited by people worldwide as the best multilingual spelling and grammar checker. Not only can this advanced editor help you use cite, site, and sight correctly, but it can also correct minor (and major) errors and help rephrase your sentences. Give it a try; flawless writing is in sight.
