Markdown Italic: How to Italicize Words and Phrases
To make text italic in Markdown, wrap the words with a single asterisk (*italic*) or a single underscore (_italic_).
Syntax Code Snippet
*This text is in italics using asterisks.* _This text is also in italics using underscores._ ***This text is both bold and italic!***
Rendered HTML Output Preview
This text is in italics using asterisks.
This text is also in italics using underscores.
This text is both bold and italic!
Platform Compatibility & Differences
GitHub (GFM):
Supported. Asterisks are preferred for intra-word emphasis (e.g., un*friggin*believable).
Discord Chat:
Supported with both `*` and `_`.
Reddit:
Supported with both `*` and `_`.
Jupyter Notebooks:
Supported in all Markdown cells.
How to Use Markdown Italic
- Copy the ready-to-use Italics syntax snippet below.
- Inspect the rendered live preview in both light and dark themes.
- Review platform compatibility differences for GitHub, Discord, Reddit, and Jupyter notebooks.
- Check common pitfalls and copy formatted snippets directly.
Practical Examples
Italics Syntax Pattern
Italics are used for emphasis, book/movie titles, foreign terms, and quotes.
Input:
*This text is in italics using asterisks.* _This text is also in italics using underscores._ ***This text is both bold and italic!***
Output:
Rendered visual format
Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
- Leaving spaces between the asterisks and the word, e.g., `* italic *`.
- Using mismatched delimiters, like `*italic_`.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use asterisks or underscores for italics?
Asterisks (`*text*`) are generally safer because underscores within words (snake_case_variables) can sometimes trigger unwanted formatting.