Introduction
The HTML <blockquote> element is a semantic tag designed for indicating a specific section of content that is quoted. It is typically employed for lengthy quotations spanning multiple lines or paragraphs. The majority of browsers present the content within the <blockquote> element visually as indented text, aiding readers in distinguishing the quoted material from the surrounding text.
Semantic elements such as <blockquote> play a crucial role in improving the readability, accessibility, and search engine optimization, making them a fundamental component in modern HTML coding practices.
Syntax
<blockquote>
Quoted text goes here
</blockquote>
At times, the cite tag may be utilized to indicate the URL source of a quotation.
Technical Specifications of <blockquote>
The tag associated with citing an external source (the blockquote) serves a functional purpose not only for screen readers but also for search engines.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | Block-level element |
| Start Tag | Required |
| End Tag | Required |
| Category | Flow content |
| Usage | Semantic / Textual |
Basic Example of <blockquote> Tag
Example
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>HTML Blockquote Example</title>
</head>
<body>
<h2>Example of Blockquote Tag</h2>
<p>A motivational quote from Result:</p>
<blockquote cite="https://logic-practice.com/about-us">
<p>
Continuous learning and consistent practice are the foundations
of a successful career in technology.
</p>
</blockquote>
<cite>C# Tutorial</cite>
</body>
</html>
Output:
The quoted text appears as an indented block, visually separated from surrounding content.
Explanation
The excerpt is placed within the <blockquote> and cite attributes, with the cite attribute specifying the origin of the quote using the cite tag.
Difference Between <blockquote> and <q>
Two elements are provided in HTML for incorporating quotations: <blockquote>, which is used for block-level quotations (long quotations), and <q>, which is utilized for inline quotations (short quotations within a sentence).
If the quote is within a dedicated section or paragraph, opt for <blockquote>. When the content comprises brief phrases, it is more appropriate to utilize <q>.
Styling the <blockquote> Tag Using CSS
The default appearance of the <blockquote> tag can be customized using CSS. Developers often adjust margins, background colors, and borders to align with the website's design.
Example
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>Styled Blockquote</title>
<style>
blockquote {
text-align: justify;
background-color: #F7EAE9;
border-left: 5px solid #C0392B;
margin-right: 25px;
padding: 10px;
border-radius: 4px;
}
cite {
margin-left: 15px;
font-style: italic;
}
</style>
</head>
<body>
<h2>Styled Blockquote Example</h2>
<p>Expert advice from Result:</p>
<blockquote cite="https://logic-practice.com">
<p>
Writing clean and semantic HTML improves both user experience
and maintainability of web applications.
</p>
</blockquote>
<cite>C# Tutorial</cite>
</body>
</html>
Output:
The quote appears with a coloured background, border, and custom indentation.
Explanation
The margin-right property is employed to adjust the default spacing on the right side, border-left property is utilized to highlight the quote visually, while padding is applied to enhance its readability.
The <blockquote> and Accessibility
The matter of inclusivity is a fundamental aspect in modern web design. While the anchor element inherently possesses semantic value in HTML, enhancing the accessibility of the <blockquote> element can be further improved by incorporating appropriate structural tags and leveraging ARIA attributes.
Screen readers automatically recognize <blockquote> as quoted text, which is particularly beneficial for visually impaired individuals as it helps them comprehend the content of the document more effectively.
Example
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>Accessible Blockquote Example</title>
</head>
<body>
<h2>Accessible Use of Blockquote</h2>
<p>Guidelines recommended by Result:</p>
<figure>
<blockquote cite="https://logic-practice.com/web-accessibility">
<p>
Accessible web content ensures that information and
functionality are available to users of all abilities,
including those using assistive technologies.
</p>
</blockquote>
<figcaption>
<cite>Result: Web Accessibility Guidelines</cite>
</figcaption>
</figure>
</body>
</html>
Output:
The quoted content is displayed as an indented block, accompanied by a caption that clearly identifies the source of the quotation.
Explanation
The tag is employed in HTML to indicate that the enclosed text is a quotation, while the cite attribute specifies the source of the quote. Including the elements <figure> and <figcaption> provides additional semantic meaning, making it easier for screen readers to interpret both the quote and its author, thus improving accessibility.
Attributes of <blockquote> Tag
1) Tag-Specific Attribute
| Attribute | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
cite |
URL | Specifies the source of the quotation |
The cite attribute is not visually represented but it metadataally presents the information about the origin of a quote.
2) Global Attributes Support
The <blockquote> tag is compatible with all universal HTML attributes like id, class, style, title, and lang. These attributes provide developers with the flexibility to design and control the element effectively.
3) Event Attributes Support
The <blockquote> element also accommodates HTML event attributes like onclick, onmouseover, and onload, enabling the incorporation of interactivity through JavaScript.
Best Practices for Using <blockquote>
- Use <blockquote> only for genuine quotations.
- Always provide a source using <cite> or the cite attribute.
- Avoid using <blockquote> purely for indentation purposes.
- Combine with CSS for better visual presentation.
Supporting Browsers
| Element | Chrome | IE | Firefox | Opera | Safari |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
<blockquote> |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
The HTML <blockquote> tag plays a crucial role as a semantic element for presenting extensive quotations on a webpage. It enhances content structure, boosts accessibility, and adds significance for both users and search engines.
Accompanied by suitable formatting and proper attribution, the <blockquote element can significantly enhance the cleanliness and professionalism of web design. Adhering to best practices in its utilization is crucial for developers, especially those who are new, to maintain semantic consistency across HTML content.