What is the purpose of using italics or quotation marks for foreign words?

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What is the purpose of using italics or quotation marks for foreign words?

The purpose of using italics or quotation marks for foreign words is to indicate to the reader that the word or phrase being used is not in the language of the text. This helps to distinguish foreign words from the rest of the text and alerts the reader that they may need to approach the word or phrase with a different understanding or interpretation.

Italics are commonly used to emphasize foreign words or phrases within a sentence or paragraph. By setting the foreign word in italics, it draws attention to its distinctiveness and signals that it is not part of the regular text. This can be particularly useful when the foreign word is being used in a specific context or has a unique meaning that may not be immediately understood by the reader.

Quotation marks, on the other hand, are often used to enclose foreign words or phrases, especially when they are being directly quoted or referenced. This helps to clearly demarcate the foreign word or phrase from the surrounding text and indicates that it is being used as a distinct entity. Quotation marks can also be used to highlight the foreignness of the word, making it stand out and ensuring that the reader recognizes it as something different from the rest of the text.

Overall, the purpose of using italics or quotation marks for foreign words is to provide clarity and aid comprehension for the reader. It helps to avoid confusion and ensures that the foreign words are appropriately acknowledged and understood within the context of the text.