Paraphrase

A paraphrase (from the Greek paraphrasis) is a statement or remark explained in other words or another way, so as to simplify or clarify its meaning. It can be used as a replacement for a direct quotation when the original text is unavailable or under copyright restriction. A paraphrase can substitute a euphemism for a direct statement, in order to avoid offense. As with a quotation, a paraphrase is introduced by a verbum dicendi, or disclaimer. A paraphrase is sometimes marked with (ph).

Characteristics of a well-done paraphrase

• It is not a summary.
• It does not contain most of the words or phrases from the original (plagiarism).
• It includes all minor details from original.
• The meaning of the writing being paraphrased is clearer to the reader than in the original text.
• It restates the thesis
• It is usually longer than the original.

Example

• "Immanuel Kant maintained the view that 'Existence' is obviously not a predicate."

This can be paraphrased as:

• "One prominent scholar believes 'existence' is not a predicate."

References

• Jones, Gerald (2005). The Philosophy of Religion. Hodder Murray. ISBN 0719579686. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)

External links

• Paraphrase: Write it in Your Own Words by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab