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All referenceBlock Elements

Markdown Blockquote

Learn how to create blockquotes in markdown using the > character. Nested quotes, formatting inside quotes, and platform support.

What is markdown blockquote?

Blockquotes in markdown start with a greater-than sign (>) followed by a space. They render as indented, visually distinct blocks — perfect for quoting text, highlighting notes, or calling out important information.

Syntax

Basic blockquote

Prefix each line with > for a blockquote.

Result

This is a blockquote. It can span multiple lines.

Nested blockquote

Use >> for nested quotes — like quoting a quote in email threads.

Result

Outer quote

Nested quote

Formatted blockquote

Blockquotes can contain any markdown — bold, lists, code, links, etc.

Result

Note: This is important.

  • Point one
  • Point two

Platform support

PlatformSupportedNotes
GitHubYesAlso supports > [!NOTE] callouts
GitLabYes
DiscordYes> for single line, >>> for multi-line block
SlackYes> for quotes
RedditYes
Stack OverflowYes
NotionYes/quote or type > at start of line
ObsidianYesAlso supports > [!info] callouts

Common mistakes

Wrong
>No space after bracket
Right
> Space after bracket

While some parsers tolerate no space, always add a space after > for compatibility.

Wrong
> Line one
Line two
Right
> Line one
> Line two

Each line in the blockquote needs the > prefix. Without it, the line exits the blockquote.

Wrong
> Quote
> > Nested
Right
> Quote
>
>> Nested

For nested quotes, use >> without a space between the > characters. Add a blank > line for separation.

Tips for blockquote

1Use for callouts

Blockquotes aren't just for quotes. Use them for warnings, notes, and tips to make important info stand out.

2GitHub callout syntax

GitHub supports special callouts: > [!NOTE], > [!TIP], > [!WARNING], > [!CAUTION], and > [!IMPORTANT] with colored icons.

> [!WARNING]
> This is a warning callout.
3Multi-paragraph quotes

Add a blank line with just > between paragraphs to keep them inside the same blockquote.

> First paragraph.
>
> Second paragraph.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know.

1

How do I quote text in markdown?

Prefix each line with > followed by a space: > quoted text. The text renders in an indented, styled block.

Related elements

Try it in the editor

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