HTML: the b element

The <b> element draws attention to text without saying that the text is more important than the surrounding content.

Draw attention to a keyword

<p>Use the <b>Preview</b> command to check the result.</p>

The b element marks text that deserves attention but does not represent a warning, priority, or stress emphasis. Its default appearance is often bold, but the meaning should guide the choice.

Choose the element by meaning

• <b>: attention without extra importance.
• <strong>: strong importance, seriousness, or urgency.
• <em>: stress emphasis that changes the intended reading.
• CSS: visual styling when the text has no special semantic role.

<p><strong>Warning:</strong> Save your work first.</p>
<p>The word <b>Preview</b> names a command.</p>
<p>I said <em>now</em>, not later.</p>

Common mistakes

• Using <b> for every piece of bold text without considering its role.
• Using <strong> only because it looks bold.
• Using <b> for a warning that should be marked as important.
• Using visual styling to communicate information that is unavailable to non-visual users.