HTML cite Attribute
Definition and Usage
The cite attribute specifies a URL to a document that explains the quote, or why the text was inserted/changed.
Applies to
The cite attribute can be used on the following elements:
| Elements | Attribute |
|---|---|
| <blockquote> | cite |
| <del> | cite |
| <ins> | cite |
| <q> | cite |
Examples
Blockquote Example
A section that is quoted from another source:
<blockquote cite="http://www.worldwildlife.org/who/index.html">
For 50 years, WWF has been protecting the future of nature. The world's leading conservation organization, WWF works in 100 countries and is supported by 1.2 million members in the United States and close to 5 million globally. WWF's unique way of working combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global, and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.
</blockquote>
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Del Example
A deleted text, with a URL to a document that explains why the text was deleted:
<p><del cite="del_demo_cite.htm">This text has been deleted</del></p>
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Ins Example
An inserted text, with a URL to a document that explains why the text was inserted:
<p>This is a text.
<ins cite="why_inserted.htm">This is an inserted text.</ins></p>
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Q Example
Specify the source URL of a quote:
<p>WWF's goal is to:
<q cite="http://www.wwf.org">
Build a future where people live in harmony with nature.</q>
We hope they succeed.</p>
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Browser Support
The cite attribute has the following browser support for each element:
| Element | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| blockquote | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| del | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ins | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| q | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
