Random Quotation Marks

Today’s editing pet peeve is random quotation marks.

First of all, there’s no need to add quote marks around colloquialisms. Only “word nerds” will appreciate this post. I’ll probably get “dumped on” for being such a “grammar snob.” (Ug. I got a little twitchy just typing that.) Trust your readers to know a common expression or figure or speech when they see one.

And please don't use quotes—or underlining, bolding or italicizing, for that matter—for words you want to emphasize. Using quote marks or formatting to draw attention to a word or phrase is a weak tool. (Ouch. That one hurt a little.) Refine your writing. Choose stronger, more descriptive words that stand on their own to communicate your message. Better yet, hire a freelance writer or editor.

The Holy Grail of editing books, The Elements of Style by Strunk and White, says it best: “If you use a colloquialism or a slang word or phrase, simply use it; do not draw attention to it by enclosing it in quotation marks. To do so is to put on airs, as though you were inviting the reader to join you in a select society of those who know better.”

There. Rant over. I feel better now.