As far as I can tell, italics are used as an alternative to quotes or double quotes. However, there is one usage that perplexes me: when they’re used on auxiliary verbs. For example,

  • I didn’t even know she had a boy friend.
  • Oh my god, they really can write!
  • If you can do that, you should.
  • But what I can guarantee is that…

I’ve seen this kind of writing on Reddit and Lemmy for quite a while, but still can’t grasp it: when and how?

  • @xzqtlmnOPEnglish
    2•1 year ago

    Is that it? I’ve been trying to figuring it for quite a while and it seems so obvious after you said it. I do know that bolds and all caps being used for emphasis, never thought about that italics in the same light, or, I supposed, soft emphasis.

    Thanks!!