Emphasis (typography)

strengthening of words in a text with a font in a different style from the rest of the text

In typography, emphasis is to strengthen words in a text. Often, this is done by using the font in a different style from the rest of the text. This highlights them.[1] It is rather like changing tone of voice or speaking louder.

Methods include changes in the way the font is used: bold, italics, small caps, using colour, changing the size of the print, and changing the typeface itself (the font).

In practice, most experienced writers look to change the text itself (the actual words) before they consider anything else.

References

change
  1. Twyman, Michael. "The Bold Idea: the use of bold-looking types in the nineteenth century". Journal of the Printing Historical Society. 22 (107–143).