It is relatively simple to use a wide variety of different expressions to introduce both direct and indirect citations. These expressions, which usually occur in the parts of sentences that come just before …

May 27, 2020 · What Is a Signal Phrase? Signal phrases serve an important role in writing. When you quote someone or paraphrase something you’ve read, you need to attribute the idea or quote to the …

Apr 25, 2022 · A signal phrase attributes a quote or idea to an outside source. Signal phrases are often used alongside in-text citations to help the reader to distinguish between your work and sources that …

Signal phrases usually come at the beginning of a sentence before the source material, but they can also occur in the middle of a source or at the end. To avoid monotony and repetition, try to vary both …

May 12, 2025 · In English grammar, a signal phrase is a phrase, clause, or sentence that introduces a quotation, paraphrase, or summary. It's also called a quotative frame or a dialogue guide.

Dec 5, 2025 · By definition, a signal phrase is a short introductory clause or phrase that attributes a quote, paraphrase, or idea to its original author, providing context before the borrowed material.

A signal phrase is a short introduction phrase that indicates that a quote or paraphrase is coming. By introducing a quotation or paraphrase with a signal phrase, you provide an effective transition …

If there are two authors, name both in the signal phrase. If there are three or more authors, you can include only the first author’s name followed by “et al.” or simply put the title of the source in the …

Dec 4, 2025 · Signal words, also known as transition words, are words or phrases that connect ideas and help the reader or listener follow along with the flow of the text or speech.

A signal phrase is a brief introduction that names your source and leads into a quotation, paraphrase, or summary. If you have ever searched for an example of signal phrase while polishing a paper, you …