quote, unquote

Q

quote, unquote

Meaning

  • to use a phrase which has been coined by someone else but saying it in disbelief.
  • to say something sarcastically.
  • A popular way to use this phrase when communicating orally is to wriggle the index and middle fingers up and down reflecting the quote sign. It reflects that the person does not mean what he is saying but it is being said out of anger, spite or to create a comical effect.

Example Sentences

  1. She wants to practice law because it is a quote – respected – unquote – field.
  2. You should know that the meaning of quote – love – unquote is very different for every woman. Some will equate it to your wealth and some will truly want you.
  3. The mosquitoes at his place are quote – very friendly – unquote, they will come to you before any of the house members do.
  4. I quote – love – unquote his new hairdo. Makes him look like a true descendant of wild Apes.

Origin

The French language has phrases such as “ouvrir les guillemets” then “fermer les guillemets” which literally mean “open quotes” and “closed quotes” which better demarcates what is within those quotes. The English version of the phrase is merely seen as a translation of it. The sarcastic twist is better applied when using in spoken English than written.

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