Putting quotation marks around a word to “emphasize” it usually backfires. A sign advertising “fresh” fish doesn’t read as extra-fresh — it reads like the shop is hedging. That’s called the scare-quote effect, and it’s just one of several quotation marks rules worth getting right..
What Quotation Marks Do
- Enclose someone’s exact spoken or written words
- Mark the titles of short works — articles, poems, songs, single episodes (longer works like books and movies get italics instead)
- Signal irony, skepticism, or a “so-called” meaning — use sparingly, and know the risk below
Where Does the Punctuation Go?
This is the #1 source of confusion. In American English, commas and periods always go inside the closing quotation mark, no exceptions:
- Correct: “I’ll be there,” she said.
- Incorrect: “I’ll be there”, she said.
Question marks and exclamation points go inside the quotes only if they’re part of the quoted material; otherwise they go outside. British English handles this differently — punctuation often sits outside the quotation marks unless it’s part of the quote itself. If you’re writing for a US audience, keep it inside.
Single vs. Double Quotes
US style uses double quotation marks for direct quotes, and single quotes only for a quote inside a quote: “She said, ‘I’ll be there,’ and hung up.” British English often reverses this convention. Either way, pick one system and stay consistent within a document.
The Scare Quote Trap
Quotation marks around a single word for emphasis almost always read as sarcasm or doubt instead — “fresh” fish, “clean” bathrooms, our “expert” team. If you want emphasis, use italics or bold. Save quotation marks for actual quotes, titles, or deliberate irony.
Common Mistakes
- Putting commas or periods outside closing quotes. In US style, they always go inside.
- Using quotation marks for emphasis. The scare-quote trap above — use italics instead.
- Mixing single and double quote styles. Pick one convention and stay consistent.
- Forgetting to close a quotation. Every opening mark needs a matching closing one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do periods go inside or outside quotation marks?
Inside, in US style — always, regardless of whether the period was part of the original quote.
When do I use single quotes?
In US style, only for a quote that appears inside another quote.
Should a book title be italicized or in quotes?
Italicize longer, standalone works — books, movies, albums. Use quotation marks for shorter works — articles, songs, poems, individual episodes.
Quick Reference
- US rule: commas and periods always go inside closing quotes
- Double quotes for direct speech; single quotes only for a quote within a quote
- Avoid using quotation marks for emphasis — use italics instead
Quick practice: Punctuate this correctly — “Are you coming” she asked. (Answer: “Are you coming?” she asked.)