The <em> HTML element is used to emphasize text, indicating that the content enclosed within the tag should be stressed or highlighted in some way. This element conveys semantic meaning, suggesting that the text it contains is of particular importance or should be read with emphasis. By default, browsers typically render the <em> element in italics, although this styling can be customized with CSS.
The <em> tag is often used in scenarios where the emphasis is intended to change the meaning or interpretation of a sentence. It is important to differentiate between <em> and other similar tags like <strong>, which also conveys emphasis but with a stronger degree of importance. Here is an example of how the <em> tag can be used:
<p>You should <em>definitely</em> try the new restaurant in town.</p>Valid Attributes for <em>
The <em> element does not have specific attributes beyond the global attributes, which include:
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| class | Specifies one or more class names for the element, used for CSS styling. |
| id | Defines a unique identifier for the element, useful for linking and JavaScript. |
| style | Contains inline CSS styles for the element. |
| title | Provides additional information about the element, often displayed as a tooltip. |
In summary, the <em> element is a semantic HTML tag used to apply emphasis to text, enhancing the meaning and readability of content. It is a valuable tool for authors who want to convey the importance of specific words or phrases within a document, contributing to the overall clarity and effectiveness of communication.