quote-unquote

British  

interjection

1. an expression used before or part before and part after a quotation to identify it as such, and sometimes to dissociate the writer or speaker from it

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Example Sentences

“They said I, quote unquote, rammed federal agents,” she said at a congressional hearing in February.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

“This is the first time, even by his own words, that it has been a quote, unquote, blowout.”

From MarketWatch • Dec. 31, 2025

“A lot of gay people growing up, and anybody who’s quote unquote, a misfit, had a rough time at the holidays,” he said.

From New York Times • Dec. 12, 2023

“I’m in a relatively recession-proof, quote unquote, industry.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2023

I figured he must be on the other bus, but then I overheard Miles tell Amos that Julian ditched the grade trip because he thought the whole nature-retreat thing was, quote unquote, dorky.

From "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio