What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
italicize
Example
Please italicize the title of the book in your essay. [italicize: verb]
Example
The Latin phrase 'carpe diem' should be italicized in your paper. [italicized: past participle]
highlight
Example
Can you please highlight the main points in this article? [highlight: verb]
Example
I like to use different colors to highlight important information in my notes. [highlighted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Highlight is more commonly used than italicize in everyday language. Highlight is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, while italicize is more specific and is typically used in formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between italicize and highlight?
Italicize is typically associated with a more formal tone, while highlight can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
