What are inverted commas?

Inverted commas, also known as quotation marks, are punctuation marks used to indicate that a word or phrase is being quoted directly from another source. They come in two main forms:

* Double quotation marks (" "): These are the most common type of quotation marks used in English.

* Single quotation marks (' '): These are often used to enclose a quote within another quote.

Here's a breakdown of how inverted commas work:

1. Direct Quotation:

- They show that the exact words of someone else are being used.

- Example: "I'm not sure what to do," she said.

2. Titles of Works:

- They are used to enclose titles of short works, such as songs, poems, chapters, articles, and short stories.

- Example: The song "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a classic.

3. Technical Terms:

- In some cases, inverted commas are used to highlight technical terms or slang words.

- Example: The "internet" has changed the way we communicate.

4. Words with Special Meaning:

- They can be used to indicate that a word is being used in a different sense than its usual meaning.

- Example: He used the word "love" in a very loose sense.

5. Quotes Within Quotes:

- When you quote something that already contains a quote, you use single quotation marks for the inner quote.

- Example: "She said, 'I can't believe it!' and ran away."

Note: Different styles and publications may have specific rules about the use of inverted commas. It's always a good idea to check the style guide for your specific context.