All,
I need some resources and evidence regarding whether to use underlining in regular body text as a means of emphasis. Please note that in this example, the links are also underlined, but I am referring only to non-anchored text.
I am looking for standards, reputable sources, documents, etc. that openly suggest one way or the other whether underlining is discouraged in body text. Is it written in stone anywhere that it should or should not be used? Opinion and arguments either way help, but please back it up.
Here is an example argument: "Regardless of what the standards say or whether using HTML or its CSS equivalent, the underlining of non-linked text is bad when it comes to accessibility, functionality, usability and the like, and is generally frowned upon in the world of web design." This, in itself, does not help me: Can that be supported or otherwise refuted using evidence?
I am referring to underlining as a means of emphasis, not as a means of inserting text (i.e the INS element). Also note the designer would be using "text-decoration: underline" versus the deprecated U element, but that should make much of a difference as to whether underlining should be used.
Andrew
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