When to use/not use Italics

While italics can be used to highlight important words, their overuse defeats the purpose. There are also more specific rules on the use of italics.

Italics must be used for:

• Book titles, journal titles (also use Title Case)
• Legal Acts, legal cases (see the conventions on presenting legislation in the Style Manual)
• Foreign words or phrases not in common use
• Scientific names
• Formula (variables are often presented in italics in text and tables/figures).

Italics should not be used for:

• Block quotes
• First Nations place names or Languages – see the Style Guide for more guidance

If in doubt, check the style guide or dictionary or other trusted online resources.