The <s> HTML element is used to render text with a strikethrough, indicating that the text is no longer accurate or relevant. This element is often used to show edits or corrections, such as prices that have been reduced or outdated information that has been updated. The <s> element provides a visual cue to users that the text has been "struck out" or invalidated.
Usage and Characteristics
The <s> element is an inline element, meaning it does not start on a new line and can be used within paragraphs or other inline content. It is typically rendered with a line through the text, although this appearance can be customized with CSS. Here is an example of how the <s> tag can be used:
<p>The original price was <s>$50.00</s> now it's $35.00.</p>Valid Attributes for <s>
The <s> 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. |
Benefits and Considerations
Semantic Meaning: The
<s>element provides semantic meaning by indicating that the enclosed content is no longer accurate or relevant, which helps both users and search engines understand the context of the text.Visual Indication: The strikethrough styling provides a clear visual indication that the text has been invalidated or changed, making it easy for users to identify corrections or updates.
Styling Flexibility: While the default styling uses a strikethrough, the appearance of text within an
<s>element can be customized using CSS to fit the design of the webpage.
In summary, the <s> element is a useful tool for indicating that text is no longer valid or relevant by applying a strikethrough. It provides semantic clarity and visual distinction for outdated or corrected information, enhancing both readability and understanding of the content. By using the <s> element, developers can effectively communicate changes or updates to users.