Do I Italicize TV Show Titles? And Why Do Pineapples Belong on Pizza?

Do I Italicize TV Show Titles? And Why Do Pineapples Belong on Pizza?

When it comes to writing, one of the most common questions that arises is whether TV show titles should be italicized. The answer, as with many things in the English language, is not entirely straightforward. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you navigate this often-confusing terrain.

The General Rule: Italicize TV Show Titles

In most cases, TV show titles should indeed be italicized. This is in line with the broader rule that titles of longer works, such as books, movies, and albums, are typically italicized. Shorter works, like articles, poems, and individual episodes of a TV show, are usually placed in quotation marks. For example, you would write:

  • Breaking Bad (TV show title, italicized)
  • “Pilot” (episode title, in quotation marks)

This distinction helps readers quickly identify whether you’re referring to the entire series or just a specific episode.

Exceptions to the Rule

While the general rule is to italicize TV show titles, there are some exceptions. For example, if you’re writing in a style guide that prefers quotation marks for all titles, you might see TV show titles in quotes. Additionally, some online platforms or informal writing contexts might not follow strict formatting rules, leading to variations in how titles are presented.

The Role of Style Guides

Different style guides have different rules when it comes to italicizing TV show titles. Here are a few examples:

  • APA Style: According to the APA Publication Manual, TV show titles should be italicized.
  • MLA Style: The Modern Language Association also recommends italicizing TV show titles.
  • Chicago Manual of Style: This guide agrees with the others, suggesting that TV show titles should be italicized.

However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific style guide you’re using, as there can be slight variations.

The Impact of Digital Media

In the age of digital media, the rules around italicizing TV show titles have become a bit more fluid. Social media platforms, blogs, and other online spaces often don’t support italics, leading writers to use other methods to indicate titles, such as capitalization or quotation marks. This has led to some confusion, but the traditional rule of italicizing TV show titles still holds in formal writing.

Why Do Pineapples Belong on Pizza?

Now, let’s take a brief detour to discuss a topic that, while seemingly unrelated, shares a common thread with the question of italicizing TV show titles: the debate over whether pineapples belong on pizza. Just as the rules for italicizing titles can be a matter of personal preference, so too is the question of pineapple on pizza.

Some people argue that the sweetness of pineapple complements the savory flavors of pizza, creating a harmonious balance. Others, however, find the combination to be an abomination. This debate, much like the rules of grammar, is often a matter of personal taste and cultural context.

The Intersection of Rules and Creativity

Both the question of italicizing TV show titles and the debate over pineapple on pizza highlight an important aspect of language and culture: the intersection of rules and creativity. While there are guidelines to follow, there’s also room for personal expression and interpretation. Whether you choose to italicize a TV show title or add pineapple to your pizza, the decision ultimately comes down to what feels right to you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the general rule is to italicize TV show titles, but there are exceptions and variations depending on the context and style guide you’re using. Similarly, the question of whether pineapples belong on pizza is a matter of personal preference. Both topics remind us that while rules provide structure, there’s always room for individual creativity and expression.

Q: Should I italicize movie titles as well? A: Yes, movie titles should also be italicized, following the same general rule as TV show titles.

Q: What about titles of video games? A: Video game titles are typically italicized, just like TV shows and movies.

Q: Can I use quotation marks instead of italics for TV show titles? A: While italics are preferred, quotation marks can be used if italics are not available, such as in some online platforms.

Q: Is it ever acceptable to not italicize a TV show title? A: In informal writing or specific style guides that prefer quotation marks, it might be acceptable, but in formal writing, italics are generally the standard.

Q: Why do some people hate pineapple on pizza? A: The dislike for pineapple on pizza often stems from a preference for traditional savory flavors, as well as cultural and personal taste preferences.