Proper Use of the Words Site, Sight and Cite

Site vs sight vs cite

                Have you ever encountered problems with using the words site, sight and cite?  This post will help you understand the proper use of the words site, sight and cite.

When to use ‘site’

                Site is a noun, which means the virtual or physical location of something. In some cases, it can also be used as a verb which means to situate or build something on a specific area.

For example: “The engineer will be meeting his people this afternoon at the new building site (noun).” “After nine years in planning, the redevelopment of the new World Trade Center site has finally started (noun).” “The City Council sited residential buildings a few blocks away from here (verb).” “The new rectory is sited near the old church (verb).”

When to use ‘cite’

                ‘Cite’ functions as a verb. It is used when we are quoting or referring to something or someone. In dissertations or academic works, it is important to find a reference source to support our ideas and points. Citing is the process of referencing an author in his/her work that has been used in other people’s works. “The advertisement about drug efficacy cited well-known studies to support their claims.” “Remember to cite research claims and expert opinions in your academic works.”

Cite also means to bring/summon to a court, as well as to send/issue a notice for a certain action: “The bravery of the new Chief of Police has been cited in several television and radio shows.” “The lecturer talked about illegal drugs and he cited several examples of drug-related behaviors.” “I committed a speeding violation, but the traffic enforcer did not cite me; he just gave a verbal warning.”

When to use ‘sight’

                Sight functions as a noun, an adjective and a verb.  It has several forms and varies in use, but it basically pertains to the ability of seeing or what is being seen by the eyes. As a noun, it pertains to visual perception: “Visually impaired individuals usually wear glasses to improve their eye sight.” “Eat healthy foods because it is one way to protect your sight.”

As an adjective, it is used in its past tense form ‘sighted’ and sometimes as a medical term: “The lady is nearsighted. She cannot see from afar.” “You are good at handling office-related stress. You are clear-sighted.”

As a verb: “The hunters sighted a deer near the bushes but they cannot get a clear shot.” “That boy is sighted strutting down the aisle during class hours.” “Henry sighted the well-advertised sports car and decided to buy it with his savings.”

Points to consider

                There are certain instances where sights and sites become a source of confusion. When we say “look at the sites” or “look at the sights” our discernment will depend on the structure and context of the sentence. If we are pertaining to places or attractions, we use ‘sights.’ But if we are pertaining to locations or areas, we use ‘sites.’