What Does QRT Mean on Twitter? A Complete Guide

On Twitter, qrt stands for “quote retweet”. It’s a way to retweet another user’s tweet while adding your own commentary or thoughts. When you quote retweet, the original tweet is included in your post along with your own text, allowing you to respond directly to the content with your own perspective.

How it Works:

1. Find the tweet you want to quote retweet.
2. Click the retweet icon (arrow symbol) below the tweet.
3. Select the “Quote Tweet” option from the menu.
4. Add your own comment or analysis in the new tweet box.
5. Click “Quote Tweet” to publish your quote retweet.

In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the QRT means on Twitter, including:

What is a Quote Tweet?

A quote tweet, also known as a “retweet with comment” or “QRT” on Twitter, is a way to share someone else’s tweet with your own thoughts and opinions added to it. It’s like hitting “retweet” but with the added bonus of leaving your own mark on the conversation.

Benefits of using quote tweets:

• Add context and commentary: You can provide more depth and insight than a simple retweet.
• Start conversations: Your comment can spark a discussion around the original tweet.
• Increase visibility: Quote tweets often get more engagement than regular retweets.
• Give credit to the original poster: By quoting their tweet, you’re acknowledging their contribution to the conversation.

Things to keep in mind:

• Be respectful of the original poster, even if you disagree with them.
• Keep your comment relevant to the original tweet.
• Don’t spam people with quote tweets.
• You can also add images or GIFs to your quote tweet for additional impact.

Here is How QRT Works.

A quote tweet, commonly abbreviated as “art”, is a retweet with commentary. When you quote a tweet, you are retweeting another user’s tweet while adding your own text before, after, or in both places. This allows you to share the original tweet with your followers while providing your own take.

For example:

Sunsets don’t get much better than this! What a beautiful night. pic.twitter.com/UkFcif3MhS— Nature Lovers (@nature) July 15, 2022

I could quote tweet the sunset photo above and add my own comment:

Agreed! This vibrant sunset is absolutely stunning. https://twitter.com/nature/status/1547689563018080768— My Name (@myhandle) July 15, 2022

This allows me to share positive feedback on the original tweet while broadcasting it to my own followers simultaneously.

Also read: Count Twitter characters: The Complete Guide

What is a QRT on Twitter?

A QRT, which stands for “Quote Retweet”, is a feature on Twitter that allows users to retweet another person’s tweet while adding their own comments above the original tweet. It keeps the original tweet intact rather than simply making a copy of it like a regular retweet.

When you quote retweet, it shows up in other people’s feeds as a “retweet with comment” from you that includes the full original tweet beneath your added quote. So it retains the original tweet’s text, images, hashtags, links, etc along with giving you a space to react to it above.

Some key things to know about QRTs:

• QRT copies the original tweet instead of just referencing it
• Allows users to add comments above the copied tweet
• Shows up as “Retweet with comment” to your followers
• Attributes the original tweet to the original Twitter
• Counts as engagement on the original tweet too

In many ways, a QRT functions similarly to simply replying to a tweet. But the difference is a QRT keeps the original tweet intact as one unit, allowing it to retain context and have better visibility when it shows up in other people’s feeds.

Now that you know the basics of what a quote retweet is, let’s look at how to actually QRT a tweet.

What Does it Mean if Someone QRTs You?

If someone QRT one of your tweets, it means they had something to say related to your tweet. They may have found your tweet funny, interesting, controversial, or conversation-worthy, prompting them to QRT it to their own followers with their reaction.

A QRT doesn’t always imply endorsement or agreement with the original tweet. People may QRT to poke fun at your tweet, point out something they disagree with, add related commentary, etc.

So don’t assume a QRT means the person unconditionally supports what you said. Check their added comment to see their perspective or stance.

How to QRT on Twitter

QRTing a tweet is easy! Just follow these steps:

On Mobile:

• Tap the retweet icon on the tweet.

• Tap “Quote Tweet” at the bottom.

• Type your comment in the text field.

• Tap “Quote Tweet”.

Your art will now be posted on your profile with the original tweet embedded.

On Desktop:

Step 1: Hover over the desired tweet and click the retweet icon.

Step 2: The tweet opens in a new window with a “Quote Tweet” box.

Step 3: Type your comment in the text field.

Step 4: Click “Quote Tweet”.

And that’s all there is to it! Compose your comment, attach any desired media, and hit Quote Tweet.

Next, let’s discuss the difference between regular retweets and quote retweets.

QRT vs RT vs Reply vs Repost

Here’s a breakdown of QRT, RT, Reply, and Repost on Twitter, highlighting their key differences and common usage:

Feature	Definition	Mechanism	Purpose	Example
QRT (Quote Retweet)	Retweets with added commentary	Includes original tweet with your text	Respond directly, offer insights, engage in conversation	“QRT: This article is thought-provoking, but I disagree with the conclusion. Here’s why…”
RT (Retweet)	Reshares without commentary	Appears below the original tweet, forming a thread	Amplify a message, endorse a viewpoint, share information	“RT: This is an important message that everyone should see.”
Reply	Responds directly to a tweet	Copies or screenshots of content for sharing	Engage in dialogue, ask questions, offer opinions, interact with others	“Reply: I totally agree with you on this point! It’s crucial to…”
Repost	Shares to external platforms	Report	Spread content beyond Twitter, reach different audiences	Copying a tweet’s text and images to share on Instagram or Facebook

QRT (Quote Retweet):

• Definition: Retweets a tweet while adding your own commentary or thoughts.
• Mechanism: Include the original tweet in your post, with your text below.
• Purpose: To respond directly to content, offer insights, or engage in conversation.
• Example: “QRT: This article is thought-provoking, but I disagree with the conclusion. Here’s why…”

RT (Retweet):

• Definition: Reshares another user’s tweet without additional commentary.
• Mechanism: Directly share the original tweet with your followers.
• Purpose: To amplify a message, endorse a viewpoint, or share information.
• Example: “RT: This is an important message that everyone should see.”

Reply:

• Definition: Respond directly to a tweet, creating a thread of conversation.
• Mechanism: Appears below the original tweet, forming a thread.
• Purpose: To engage in dialogue, ask questions, offer opinions, or interact with others.
• Example: “Reply: I totally agree with you on this point! It’s crucial to…”

Report (Not a native Twitter feature):

• Definition: Sharing a tweet’s content (text, images, videos) on other social media platforms.
• Mechanism: Copying or screenshotting and resharing externally.
• Purpose: To spread content beyond Twitter, reach different audiences, or cross-promote.
• Example: Copying a tweet’s text and images to share on Instagram or Facebook.

Key Considerations:

• Quote Retweets (QRTs): Preferred for direct responses, commentary, or personal opinions.
• Retweets (RTs): Ideal for amplifying others’ voices, endorsing content, or sharing news.
• Replies: Best for engaging in conversations, asking questions, or interacting directly.
• Reposts: Useful for extending reach beyond Twitter, sharing on other platforms.

Choosing the right method depends on your specific goal and the context of the interaction. Consider whether you want to amplify, add commentary, engage in conversation, or spread content to other platforms to make the most effective choice on Twitter.

Also read: Why Are Bots Following Me on Twitter?

Retweet vs. Quote Retweet

Though they sound similar, regular retweets and quote retweets on Twitter function differently:

Regular Retweet	Quote Retweet
Retweets post as is to your followers	Copies original tweet instead of just referencing
Shows up as “Retweeted” from original user	Allows user to add own comment above
Increases visibility of original tweet	Allows users to add own comment above
No added commentary	Increases visibility of original tweet

The biggest distinction is that a regular retweet simply reposts the original tweet as is to boost its visibility, while a quote retweet allows you to append your own commentary to the top of the copied tweet.

So QRTs add your perspective and voice to amplify the reach of the original tweet. This can spark threaded discussions centered around the quoted tweet you’re reacting to.

How to Quote Tweets on Desktop and Mobile

Performing a art is straightforward on both platforms:

Desktop

Step 1: Hover over the desired tweet and click the retweet icon.

Step 2: The tweet opens in a new window with a “Quote Tweet” box.

Step 3: Type your comment in the text field.

Step 4: Click “Quote Tweet”.

Mobile

• Tap the retweet icon on the tweet.

• Tap “Quote Tweet” at the bottom.

• Type your comment in the text field.

• Tap “Quote Tweet”.

Your art will now be posted on your profile with the original tweet embedded.

Benefits of Quote Retweeting

There are a few core purposes and benefits of using quote retweets instead of regular retweets or replies. Quote retweeting, or QRTing, offers several advantages compared to regular retweeting or simply replying on Twitter. Here are some of the key benefits:

Deeper Engagement:

• Adds your own voice: Instead of simply resharing someone else’s content, you can add your own commentary, analysis, or questions. This sparks deeper engagement and invites further discussion.
• Starts conversations: Your QRT becomes a mini-thread, encouraging others to join the conversation and share their own perspectives.
• Provides context: Sharing the original tweet in your QRT gives viewers immediate access to the source material, promoting a better understanding of your comment.

Increased Visibility:

• Reaches wider audience: Your QRT might appear in the replies and notifications of both the original poster and your followers, potentially expanding your reach.
• Boosts your own tweets: QRTs with valuable insights or humor can gain traction on their own, attracting new followers and increasing your profile visibility.
• Contributes to discussions: Active participation in relevant conversations through QRTs can establish you as a thought leader or valuable contributor within your niche.

Content Amplification:

• Highlights important points: By quoting specific parts of the original tweet, you can emphasize key points you want to amplify or critique.
• Offers different perspectives: QRTs provide diverse viewpoints on a topic, enriching the online discourse and offering a more nuanced understanding.
• Supports underrepresented voices: If you QRT someone with a smaller following, you can help amplify their message and give them broader exposure.

Additional Benefits:

• Shows appreciation: QRTing someone’s thoughtful content can be a way to acknowledge their work and express your interest in their ideas.
• Provides credibility: Quoting from reputable sources in your QRTs can strengthen your own arguments and lend credibility to your point of view.
• Promotes interaction: QRTs are more likely to elicit replies and interactions compared to regular retweets, fostering a more dynamic online community.

Overall, QRTing is a versatile tool that enhances your engagement on Twitter. It allows you to contribute meaningfully to conversations, amplify relevant content, and build your own online presence.

Remember, like any online interaction, use QRTs responsibly and thoughtfully to add value to the conversation and maintain a respectful tone.

QRT Etiquette to Follow on Twitter

Like any social media feature, there is QRT etiquette users should follow to ensure respectful interactions. Here are some QRT best practices:

• Add Value: Quote retweet commentary should constructively add to the discussion and meaningfully expand on the original tweet. Don’t just thoughtlessly pile on.
• Stay On Topic: Keep your QRT on the topic of quoted tweets instead of going on irrelevant tangents. Help continue the specific conversation at hand.
• Be Respectful: Even if disagree, be thoughtful and respectful in your QRT. Twitter should enable healthy discussions.
• Credit Original User: Always leave the original attribution so it’s clear who authored the quoted content you are reacting to.
• Ask Permission First: If wanting to QRT sensitive tweets involving someone else, consider asking them first before sharing publicly.
• Fix Mistakes: If your QRT contains incorrect info, be sure to promptly correct it or delete it when pointed out.

Following basic etiquette guidelines helps make quote retweets productive for robust discussions without toxicity. Think before QRTing!

Common QRT Meanings & Slang Terms

Beyond the standard usage, QRT has some popular slang meanings and associated terms on Twitter too:

Common QRT Meanings & Slang Terms on Twitter:

QRT-Specific Slang:

• QT or qrt: Simply abbreviated forms of “Quote Retweet.”
• qoute tweet: Emphasize the action of directly responding with commentary.
• thread: Refers to the extended conversation chain formed by a QRT and replies.
• ratio: When replies to a QRT outnumber likes, suggesting disagreement or disapproval.
• ratioed: Describes a Tweet receiving significantly more replies than likes, often implying negativity.
• based QRT: Praises a well-crafted or insightful QRT, often used humorously.

General Twitter Slang:

• oof: Expresses disappointment, surprise, or mild shock.
• same: Relates to a sentiment or experience shared by the original poster.
• mood: Captures a current feeling or atmosphere, often with an image or gif.
• facts: Emphasizes agreement with a statement, implying its truthfulness.
• no cap: Asserts honesty or sincerity in a statement.
• shook: Expresses deep surprise, shock, or disbelief.
• dead: Used humorously to express extreme laughter or amusement.
• fire: Indicates approval or excitement about something.

Meme-Related Terms:

• copypasta: Refers to pre-written text copied and pasted for comedic effect.
• curb your enthusiasm: Meme format depicting awkward or cringeworthy situations.
• woman yelling at cat: Meme format contrasting two opposing viewpoints.
• distracted boyfriend: Meme format highlighting temptation or infidelity.
• Drakeposting: Meme format comparing two contrasting options using Drake images.

Hashtags:

• #relatable: Indicates a tweet’s content is relatable to many users.
• #blessed: Expresses gratitude or satisfaction with one’s circumstances.
• #currentmood: Shares your current emotional state or vibe.
• #throwback: Resurfaces old content, memories, or trends.
• #trending: Identifies topics currently generating significant buzz on Twitter.

Where QRT Comments Appear on Twitter

QRT comments, or the additional text you add when quote retweeting, can appear in several places on Twitter, depending on the context and settings:

1. In the Reply Section of the Original Tweet:

• This is the most common and expected location. Your QRT will appear as a separate tweet below the original one, with your additional commentary displayed under the quoted content.
• This makes it readily visible to those viewing the original tweet’s replies, encouraging direct engagement with both the original post and your QRT.

2. In Your Followers’ Feeds:

• Your QRT will appear in your followers’ feeds alongside your other tweets, alongside the quoted content. Depending on their timeline settings, they might see it immediately or it might be mixed in with other tweets.
• This helps increase the visibility of your QRT even for those who haven’t seen the original tweet, potentially sparking broader conversation and engagement.

3. In Notifications of Both You and the Original Tweeter:

• Both you and the original tweeter will receive notifications about your QRT, similar to a regular reply notification.
• This helps ensure both parties are aware of your response and encourages further interaction within the conversation.

4. In Search Results:

• Depending on the content and keywords used, your QRT might appear in search results on Twitter. This can increase its reach and make it discoverable by users searching for relevant topics.

5. Within Threads Formed by Replies to Your QRT:

• If others reply to your QRT, a mini-thread will be formed, with their responses appearing below your post and nested within the broader conversation about the original tweet.
• This fosters deeper engagement and allows further discussion focused on your specific perspective within the overall topic.

Additional factors affecting QRT placement:

• Twitter algorithm: The Twitter algorithm determines which tweets appear most prominently in feeds and search results. QRTs with high engagement (likes, replies, retweets) may be prioritized within the conversation.
• User settings: Users can adjust their timeline settings to prioritize replies or retweets, which might influence how prominently they see your QRT.
• Original tweet settings: The original tweeter can restrict who can reply or quote retweet their content, potentially limiting the visibility of your QRT.

Also read: Twitter App Gone: What to Do When the App Disappears

Best Practices & Tips for QRT Engagement

Here are some tips for effectively utilizing quote tweets:

• Add Value: Give useful insights rather than just saying “Agreed!”.
• Ask Questions: Engage others by responding with on-topic questions.
• Tag the Author: Include their @handle so they see your qrt.
• Thread Responses: Use qrt to participate in tweet discussions.
• Share Quality Content: Qrt to highlight great tweets from others.
• Drive Traffic: Quote your own threads and articles to share them.

Quote tweeting allows for more meaningful engagement. Use these strategies to get the most out of the feature!

Quoting is a powerful Twitter tool to start conversations and connect with others. QRT more often to leverage the benefits!

Also read: How to Read Comments on Twitter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About QRT on Twitter

Using qrt on Twitter allows for more engaging discussions. Follow these tips to get the most out of the quote tweet feature!