What is the function of brackets in a direct quotation?

Brackets are employed within a direct quotation primarily to insert additional information to aid in comprehension. For instance, if a quote is being used in an essay, a writer might add clarifying information or context that isn’t part of the original statement but is necessary for the reader to understand the quote fully. This could include defining a term or providing a brief explanation of a situation. The use of brackets signals to the reader that the inserted text is not part of the original quotation but is critical for understanding the intended meaning.

This draws a distinction from other functions that brackets might imply, such as clarifying context, which more generally addresses the setting of the quote rather than inserting extra detail. Replacing original text with different words typically suggests paraphrasing rather than quoting. Lastly, denoting a change in speaker is more appropriately indicated through the use of quotation marks or formatting rather than brackets. Thus, the insertion of additional information using brackets is the most accurate function they serve within direct quotations.