Definition

A mistake made when citing a source, where the reference is incorrect or not properly formatted.

Example

The paper was rejected due to a miscitation in the bibliography.

Conversation

Did you see the paper I wrote for class?

Yeah, I read it, but I noticed a miscitation in one of your references.

Oh no, really? I thought I double-checked everything.

It happens to everyone; just make sure to fix that before you submit it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Miscitation → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly) and "citation" (from Latin "citare", meaning to summon or call). The word refers to a wrongful or incorrect reference to a source or authority.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly and 'citation' meaning a reference — so a miscitation is a wrong reference.

Visually Confused Words