HTML Tag: Meaning, Italic Text and CSS
The HTML <i> element represents text set apart from surrounding prose for a reason such as a technical term, idiomatic phrase, taxonomic designation or another alternate voice. It should not be chosen only because you want slanted text.
<p>The term <i>responsive design</i> is widely used.</p>The term responsive design is widely used.
Italic appearance only Top ↑
For presentation alone, use CSS:
.italic { font-style: italic; }I vs EM Top ↑
<em> marks stress emphasis that can change the meaning or emphasis of a sentence. <i> identifies text in an alternate voice or convention without that stress-emphasis meaning.
Related Tutorials Top ↑
Frequently Asked Questions Top ↑
Is the I element deprecated?
No. It has a semantic use beyond merely making text italic.
When should I use EM instead?
Use EM for stress emphasis.
How do I make text italic only for design?
Use CSS font-style: italic.
Does I always display italic?
Browsers commonly italicize it, but CSS controls presentation.
Can I nest I inside other text?
Yes, when the semantics fit the phrase being marked.
Subhendu Mohapatra
Author & Instructor at plus2net
I write and maintain practical tutorials on Python, PHP, SQL, JavaScript, HTML, jQuery, and web development at plus2net. The tutorials focus on clear explanations, working examples, and code that readers can test and adapt while learning.
