# italics

/aɪˈtæɫɪks/ (US) · /ɪtˈælɪks/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/italics
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a style of writing where the letters lean to the right. You use this to make a word stand out or to show the title of a book.

For teachers: a typeface style in which characters slant to the right. Used to indicate emphasis, foreign words, or titles of creative works.

## Examples

- The book titles in this list are in italics.
- The editor suggested putting the character's internal thoughts in italics to distinguish them from the spoken dialogue.
- Standard academic style guides usually require that the names of specific biological species be written in italics to maintain consistency across scientific publications.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The word is in italic." but "The word is in italics." — When referring to the style of writing, the plural form 'italics' is the standard usage.

## Usage notes

- Takes a plural verb; often used with the preposition 'in' ('written in italics').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.