Paraphrase
Also called: restatement
Paraphrasing is describing in one's own words what someone else has said or written. In this respect, a paraphrase differs from a quotation, where a statement or fragment of text is actually taken verbatim. Like quoting, in paraphrasing it is customary to cite the source. In paraphrasing, the intention is not to change the meaning of the original text or statement.
Why paraphrase?
A paraphrase is usually used when it is a better than direct quotation. For example, because the original text is too long, cumbersome or complicated, or when the quoted text or statement uses a different language. When paraphrasing is chosen to shorten a text, it is better to refer to it as a summary. The choice to paraphrase may be motivated by a desire to avoid plagiarism. Paraphrasing can also be used as a style form to clarify a quotation.
Paraphrasing rather than quoting is more commonly used in research, scientific studies and theses. This allows a clearer emphasis on the meaning of the referenced source within the context of the publication in which it is used.
In the case of theses and other assignments, the writer's choice of words demonstrates at once that he or she has understood the source; for quotations, the choice is made primarily in the case of a compelling reason to retain the form of the original quotation as well.