Synonyms of citation

citation

noun

sī-ˈtā-shən 

1

as in tribute

a formal expression of praise

the citation for the Nobel Prize winner noted his major contributions to quantum theory

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tribute
• commendation
• award
• accolade
• hymn
• homage
• encomium
• eulogy
• panegyric
• prize
• eulogium
• salutation
• paean
• dithyramb
• acclaim
• applause
• dedication
• decoration
• honor
• laudation
• acclamation
• recommendation
• approval
• cachet
• compliment
• kudo
• hallelujah
• plaudit(s)
• bravo

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indictment
• condemnation
• reprimand
• censure
• denunciation
• rebuke
• lecture
• correction
• sermon
• admonition
• reproof
• harangue

2

as in commendation

a formal recognition of an achievement or praiseworthy deed

a police officer who has received several citations for his work with troubled youths in the city

Synonyms & Similar Words

• commendation
• award
• medal
• acknowledgment
• mention
• prize
• ribbon
• decoration
• tribute
• honor
• accolade
• dedication
• kudo

3

as in quotation

a passage referred to, repeated, or offered as an example

in your paper be sure to include citations to back up any points you make about the play

Synonyms & Similar Words

• quotation
• quote
• reference
• excerpt
• allusion
• section
• extract
• part
• snippet
• line

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun citation differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of citation are encomium, eulogy, panegyric, and tribute. While all these words mean "a formal expression of praise," citation applies to the formal praise of a person offered in a military dispatch or in awarding an honorary degree.

earned a citation for bravery

When can encomium be used instead of citation?

The words encomium and citation are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing.

received encomiums from literary critics

When might eulogy be a better fit than citation?

The meanings of eulogy and citation largely overlap; however, eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person.

delivered the eulogy at the funeral service

When could panegyric be used to replace citation?

In some situations, the words panegyric and citation are roughly equivalent. However, panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment.

her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor

When is tribute a more appropriate choice than citation?

While the synonyms tribute and citation are close in meaning, tribute implies deeply felt praise conveyed either through words or through a significant act.

the concert was a musical tribute to the early jazz masters

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of citation

All parking citations must be cleared before applying for a virtual vehicle permit or visitor permit. —Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 28 May 2026

Juveniles can also receive citations for participating in certain activities while at these events, including trespassing, jaywalking, pedestrian violations and simple battery. —Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026

The deputy issued 36-year-old Kathleen Thomas a citation anyway. —Cristian Benavides, CBS News, 28 May 2026

He was also issued an auto law citation. —Colleen Cronin, Boston Herald, 28 May 2026