When it comes to website development, there are a lot of technical terms and acronyms that can be confusing for those who are not familiar with the field. One such term is XHTML, which is often compared to HTML. In this article, we will explore the differences between XHTML and HTML and which one is the proper term to use.
XHTML stands for Extensible Hypertext Markup Language, while HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language. Both of these are languages used to create websites, but there are some key differences between them. XHTML is a stricter and cleaner version of HTML, which follows the rules of XML. HTML, on the other hand, is a more flexible language that allows for more errors and inconsistencies.
While both XHTML and HTML are still used today, HTML is the more commonly used term. However, it is important to note that XHTML is still a valid language and is often used in specialized fields such as mobile app development and e-books.
Throughout this article, we will explore the differences between XHTML and HTML in more detail, including their syntax, compatibility, and benefits. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which language is best suited for your website development needs.
Define Xhtml
XHTML stands for Extensible Hypertext Markup Language. It is a stricter and cleaner version of HTML, which is designed to be more compatible with XML. XHTML is a markup language that is used to create web pages and is based on the same principles as HTML. However, XHTML is a more structured language that enforces strict syntax rules and requires well-formed code. This means that XHTML documents are easier to process by web browsers and other software applications, which can lead to improved performance and reliability.
XHTML is a markup language that is designed to be more compatible with XML, which means that it follows the same rules and syntax as XML. This makes it easier to integrate with other XML-based technologies, such as RSS feeds and web services. XHTML is also designed to be more accessible and usable for people with disabilities, as it allows for the creation of more structured and semantic web pages.
Define Html
HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language. It is the standard markup language used to create web pages and is the foundation of the World Wide Web. HTML is a markup language that uses tags to define the structure and content of web pages. HTML documents can be created using any text editor and can be viewed in any web browser.
HTML is a flexible and easy-to-learn language that allows web developers to create web pages with rich content and interactivity. HTML is also constantly evolving, with new versions and features being added all the time. The latest version of HTML is HTML5, which includes new features such as video and audio support, canvas graphics, and improved accessibility.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to web development, there are two main markup languages that are used to create web pages: XHTML and HTML. Knowing how to properly use these terms in a sentence is important for clear communication within the industry.
How To Use Xhtml In A Sentence
XHTML stands for Extensible Hypertext Markup Language, and it is a stricter, more standardized version of HTML. When using XHTML in a sentence, it is important to note that it is an XML-based markup language that follows stricter syntax rules than HTML. Here are some examples of how to use XHTML in a sentence:
- “I prefer using XHTML for web development because it is more standardized.”
- “XHTML requires properly closed tags and lowercase attribute names.”
- “The W3C recommends using XHTML over HTML for future-proofing your web pages.”
How To Use Html In A Sentence
HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language, and it is the standard markup language used for creating web pages. When using HTML in a sentence, it is important to note that it is a less strict language than XHTML and is more forgiving of errors. Here are some examples of how to use HTML in a sentence:
- “HTML is the foundation of all web development.”
- “HTML allows for more flexibility in coding web pages.”
- “Although XHTML is stricter, HTML is still widely used in web development.”
More Examples Of Xhtml & Html Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the differences between XHTML and HTML, it can be helpful to see them used in real-world examples. Here are some sample sentences that demonstrate the use of both:
Examples Of Using Xhtml In A Sentence
- She was tasked with creating an XHTML version of the company’s website.
- The new website was designed using XHTML to ensure maximum compatibility with different browsers.
- He spent hours debugging the XHTML code to eliminate any errors.
- The web developer recommended using XHTML for its stricter syntax rules.
- Her portfolio website was built using XHTML and CSS for a clean, modern look.
- He was surprised to find that his old HTML website was not compliant with XHTML standards.
- The online store switched to using XHTML to improve accessibility for users with disabilities.
- She prefers using XHTML because of its more precise markup requirements.
- He has been studying XHTML as part of his web development coursework.
- The website’s search engine optimization was improved by switching to XHTML.
Examples Of Using Html In A Sentence
- Many websites still use HTML as their primary markup language.
- He learned HTML in order to create his first website.
- The HTML code for the webpage was simple and easy to understand.
- She used HTML to format the text and images on the page.
- He found a helpful HTML tutorial online to help him with his coding.
- The website’s HTML was optimized for fast loading times.
- She used HTML5 to create an interactive game for her portfolio.
- He was able to customize the website’s appearance using HTML and CSS.
- The HTML code was validated to ensure compliance with web standards.
- The website’s HTML was updated to include responsive design for mobile devices.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using XHTML and HTML, there are common mistakes that people make when using them interchangeably. Here are some of the most common mistakes and why they are incorrect:
Using Self-closing Tags In Html
One of the most common mistakes is using self-closing tags in HTML. Self-closing tags are used in XHTML, but not in HTML. For example, the correct way to write an image tag in HTML is <img src=”image.jpg”>, while the incorrect way is <img src=”image.jpg” />. This mistake can cause issues with browser compatibility and validation errors.
Using Lowercase Tags In Xhtml
Another common mistake is using lowercase tags in XHTML. XHTML requires all tags to be written in lowercase, while HTML does not. For example, the correct way to write a paragraph tag in XHTML is <p>, while the incorrect way is <P>. This mistake can cause validation errors and issues with browser compatibility.
Using Deprecated Tags In Xhtml
Deprecated tags are tags that are no longer supported by the latest version of HTML or XHTML. Using deprecated tags in XHTML can cause validation errors and issues with browser compatibility. Some examples of deprecated tags include <font>, <center>, and <strike>. It is important to use updated tags in XHTML to ensure compatibility and validation.
Not Closing Tags Properly
Not closing tags properly is a common mistake in both XHTML and HTML. Forgetting to close a tag can cause issues with the layout and functionality of a website. It is important to always close tags properly to ensure the website displays correctly in all browsers.
To avoid making these mistakes in the future, it is important to understand the differences between XHTML and HTML and to use the appropriate syntax for each. Additionally, using a validator tool can help catch any errors and ensure the website is validated and compatible with all browsers.
Context Matters
When deciding between XHTML and HTML, the context in which they are used plays a significant role. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the project, as well as the audience and the purpose of the website.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between XHTML and HTML might change:
Government Websites
Government websites typically require strict adherence to web standards and accessibility guidelines. In this context, XHTML is the preferred choice as it is more strict in its syntax and structure. This ensures that the website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Additionally, XHTML has a better compatibility with XML-based technologies, making it easier to integrate with other systems.
Personal Websites
For personal websites, the choice between XHTML and HTML is less critical. HTML is generally easier to use and more forgiving in terms of syntax errors, making it a better choice for beginners or those who do not require the strict structure of XHTML. However, if the website owner wants to ensure that their website is future-proof and compatible with emerging technologies, XHTML is the better choice.
E-commerce Websites
E-commerce websites require a high degree of functionality and interactivity. In this context, HTML is the preferred choice as it offers more flexibility and compatibility with third-party tools and plugins. Additionally, HTML is better suited for dynamic content, such as user-generated content or real-time updates.
Mobile Websites
Mobile websites have unique requirements, such as smaller screen sizes and limited bandwidth. In this context, HTML is the preferred choice as it is more lightweight and easier to optimize for mobile devices. Additionally, HTML offers more flexibility in terms of design and layout, making it easier to create responsive websites that adapt to different screen sizes.
The choice between XHTML and HTML depends on the specific context in which they are used. While XHTML is more strict and structured, HTML is more flexible and forgiving. By understanding the requirements of the project and the needs of the audience, web developers can make an informed decision about which language to use.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using XHTML and HTML are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they may not apply. Below are some explanations and examples of such exceptions:
1. Compatibility Issues
One exception to the rules for using XHTML and HTML is compatibility issues with certain web browsers or applications. Some older versions of browsers may not support XHTML, while newer versions of applications may require HTML5. In such cases, it may be necessary to use the version of markup language that is compatible with the browser or application in question.
2. Specific Client Requirements
Another exception is when a client specifically requests the use of a certain markup language. This may be due to their personal preference or because their website is already built using that language. In such cases, it is important to adhere to the client’s requirements and use the requested markup language.
3. Legacy Code
Legacy code is another exception where the rules for using XHTML and HTML may not apply. If a website was built using an older version of HTML, it may not be practical or necessary to convert it to XHTML. In such cases, it is acceptable to continue using the older version of HTML.
4. Experimental Features
Finally, experimental features in HTML5 may not be supported by all browsers. In such cases, it may be necessary to use alternative markup languages or avoid using the experimental features altogether.
| Exception | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility Issues | Some older browsers may not support XHTML, while newer applications may require HTML5. | Using HTML5 for a mobile app that requires it. |
| Specific Client Requirements | A client may request a certain markup language due to personal preference or existing website code. | Using XHTML for a website that was built using that language. |
| Legacy Code | It may not be practical or necessary to convert an older website to XHTML. | Using HTML 4.01 for a website built in the late 1990s. |
| Experimental Features | Experimental features in HTML5 may not be supported by all browsers. | Avoiding the use of the <canvas> tag in HTML5. |
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of XHTML and HTML is through practice exercises. These exercises can help you solidify your knowledge and ensure that you are using the correct syntax and structure.
Here are a few practice exercises to get you started:
Exercise 1: Creating A Basic Html Page
Using a text editor, create a basic HTML page that includes the following elements:
- A document type declaration
- A
<html>element - A
<head>element with a<title>element - A
<body>element with a<h1>element and a<p>element
Save the file with a .html extension and open it in a web browser to ensure that it displays correctly.
Exercise 2: Converting An Html Page To Xhtml
Take the HTML page you created in Exercise 1 and convert it to valid XHTML. Make sure to:
- Add the appropriate namespace declaration
Save the file with a .xhtml extension and open it in a web browser to ensure that it displays correctly.
Exercise 3: Using Semantic Markup
Create an HTML page that uses semantic markup to structure the content. Use the following elements:
<header><nav><main><article><section><aside><footer>
Make sure to include appropriate content within each element. Save the file with a .html extension and open it in a web browser to ensure that it displays correctly.
Answer keys or explanations for each exercise can be found online or in HTML and XHTML reference books.
Conclusion
After examining the differences between XHTML and HTML, it is clear that XHTML is a stricter and more standardized version of HTML. XHTML requires well-formed syntax and adheres to a set of rules that make it more reliable and consistent across different web browsers.
However, HTML is still widely used and supported by most web browsers, and it may be more appropriate for simpler websites or those that do not require strict validation. It is important to consider the specific needs of your website before choosing which markup language to use.
Key Takeaways
- XHTML is a stricter and more standardized version of HTML
- XHTML requires well-formed syntax and adheres to a set of rules that make it more reliable and consistent across different web browsers
- HTML is still widely used and supported by most web browsers
- The choice between XHTML and HTML depends on the specific needs of your website
As you continue to learn about grammar and language use in web development, it is important to stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices. By doing so, you can ensure that your website is accessible, user-friendly, and optimized for search engines.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.