How is "plagiarism" defined?

Plagiarism is defined as the act of using someone else's work without proper attribution. This definition encompasses a wide range of actions that violate the ethical standards of writing and research. It includes copying text, images, ideas, or any form of original content created by another individual and presenting it as one's own, effectively borrowing that intellectual property without giving the original creator the credit they deserve.

This understanding highlights the importance of acknowledging sources in any academic or professional setting, ensuring that original creators receive recognition for their contributions. When using someone else's work, it is crucial to provide appropriate citations, which helps to maintain academic integrity and respect for the intellectual rights of others.

Other choices might refer to specific instances of plagiarism, such as using quotations without credit or paraphrasing someone's work without acknowledgment, but the encapsulating definition that focuses on the broader action of using another's work without proper attribution is what precisely defines plagiarism. Providing incorrect references relates more to citation errors rather than the act of plagiarism itself, which centers on the ethical use of someone else's intellectual contributions.