How do I change the color of a specific word in a paragraph?

November 23, 2025 · caitlin

To change the color of a specific word in a paragraph, you need to use HTML or CSS if you’re working on a web page. By applying inline styles or using a class with CSS, you can easily alter the color of any word you choose. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you can effectively highlight text with color.

How to Change the Color of a Specific Word in a Paragraph

Changing the color of a specific word in a paragraph can be done using HTML and CSS. Here’s a simple way to achieve this:

  1. Use Inline CSS: This method involves adding a style attribute directly to the HTML element.
  2. Apply a CSS Class: Define a CSS class and apply it to the word you want to change.

Using Inline CSS to Change Text Color

Inline CSS is the most straightforward way to change the color of a specific word. Here’s how you can do it:

<p>This is a <span style="color: red;">specific</span> word in a paragraph.</p>

In this example, the word "specific" will be displayed in red. The span tag is used to apply the style only to the word you want to change.

Applying a CSS Class for Text Color

For a more organized approach, especially if you need to change the color of multiple words or reuse styles, using a CSS class is recommended.

  1. Define the CSS Class:
.red-text {
  color: red;
}
  1. Apply the Class to the Word:
<p>This is a <span class="red-text">specific</span> word in a paragraph.</p>

This method separates the style from the HTML, making it easier to manage and update styles across your site.

Benefits of Using CSS for Text Color

  • Reusability: CSS classes can be reused, reducing redundancy.
  • Maintainability: Easier to update styles in one place without altering HTML.
  • Scalability: Ideal for larger projects where consistent styling is crucial.

Practical Examples of Changing Text Color

  • Highlighting Keywords: Use color to emphasize keywords in a blog post or article.
  • Branding: Match text colors to your brand’s color scheme for cohesive design.
  • Accessibility: Ensure text color contrasts well with the background for better readability.

People Also Ask

How can I change text color in Word documents?

In Microsoft Word, you can change text color by selecting the word and choosing a new color from the font color option in the toolbar. This is a simple way to enhance document readability and emphasis.

Can I change text color in Google Docs?

Yes, in Google Docs, select the word you want to change, click on the text color icon in the toolbar, and choose your desired color. This feature helps in organizing and highlighting important information.

What are the best colors for text emphasis?

The best colors for text emphasis are those that contrast well with the background. Common choices include red, blue, and green. Ensure the color enhances readability and does not strain the eyes.

Is it possible to change text color using JavaScript?

Yes, you can change text color using JavaScript by selecting the element and altering its style property. This method is useful for dynamic changes based on user interaction.

How do I ensure text color is accessible?

To ensure accessibility, use color contrast checkers to verify that your text color contrasts sufficiently with the background. This is crucial for users with visual impairments.

Conclusion

Changing the color of a specific word in a paragraph is a straightforward task with HTML and CSS. Whether using inline styles for simplicity or CSS classes for scalability, you can effectively highlight text to improve readability and emphasis. Remember to consider accessibility when choosing colors to ensure your content is inclusive for all users.

For more insights on web design, consider exploring topics like responsive design techniques and CSS animations to enhance your site’s user experience.

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