Whether an article is in quotes or italics depends entirely on the context and its intended purpose within the larger piece of writing. There's no single, universally correct answer. Let's explore the different scenarios:
When to Use Quotation Marks (" ")
Quotation marks are primarily used to indicate direct quotations of someone else's words. This means you're reproducing the exact wording from a spoken or written source. For example:
- "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog," is a well-known pangram.
Here, the quotation marks clearly show that the phrase "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" is a direct quote, not your own original wording.
Quotation marks can also be used for:
- Titles of short works: This includes short stories, poems, song titles, and articles within a larger publication. For example: "Ode to a Nightingale" or "The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers" (within a larger essay or book).
- Words used ironically or sarcastically: If you use a word in a way that's contrary to its usual meaning, quotation marks can signal this. For example: "He's such a 'genius' at fixing things."
When to Use Italics
Italics are generally used for:
- Titles of longer works: This includes books, plays, films, albums, and standalone magazines. For example: Pride and Prejudice, Hamlet, The Dark Knight.
- Emphasis: Italics can draw the reader's attention to a specific word or phrase, providing emphasis. However, overuse of italics can weaken their impact. Use sparingly.
- Foreign words or phrases: Unless the word has become fully integrated into English, it's often italicized. For example: ad hoc, ceteris paribus.
- Scientific names: These are usually italicized. For example: Homo sapiens.
In short: There's no single rule. The choice between quotes and italics depends on what you're quoting or emphasizing and the style guide you are following (such as MLA, APA, or Chicago). If in doubt, consult a style guide or your instructor's preferences.
