Do you add a spot of color for text emphasis?
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When there are key words that you want people to notice, you can add a spot of color on the important word for emphasis.
You should make parts of the text different colors just like you’d highlight or boldface parts of a sentence. The duo colored text will help emphasize your message.
Use colors from your branding/design system when you do this.
Figure: The TV signage has the important words in red
Use color sparingly
While a spot of color can guide attention and improve scannability, overusing color has the opposite effect. If everything is emphasized, nothing stands out.
Too many bright or contrasting elements:
- Create visual noise, making the UI feel cluttered and overwhelming
- Reduce readability and accessibility, especially for users with visual impairments
- Make it harder for users to know what truly matters
Stick to one accent colors per screen or section. Use them intentionally—only for elements that truly require user focus.
✅ Figure: See bottom tagline - Don't make the important word “quality software” in red... because you already have red
✅ Figure: See bottom tagline - Make the important word “quality software” in red... because you do not have red
Avoid using color for full sentences, even if it's just one word
Color should be used to emphasize keywords or short phrases within a sentence — not to style entire statements.
Tip: Instead of coloring a sentence, add a colored icon (like ✅ or ❌). This keeps the message clear and accessible while still providing visual emphasis.
Use color to guide, not to shout.
❌ Figure: Bad example - Text in green is too much
✅ Figure: Good example - Text in content color (white in this dark mode example) with a green tick