The New Yorker Finally Enters the 21st Century with Internet Style Guide Update

Riley King

Riley King

March 11, 2025 · 3 min read
The New Yorker Finally Enters the 21st Century with Internet Style Guide Update

The New Yorker, a stalwart of American journalism, has finally brought its style guide into the 21st century by updating its guidelines for internet-related words. The magazine, known for its quirky stylings, has abandoned the use of "e-mails," "in box," and "the Internet," opting for more contemporary spellings.

This move marks a significant shift for the publication, which has long been associated with its distinctive voice and style. The decision was made after a clandestine meeting among editors in January, which included former copy editors. According to Andrew Boynton, The New Yorker's Head of Copy, the group came to a consensus on updating the style guide to reflect modern usage.

The changes are a departure from The New Yorker's traditional approach, but the magazine has chosen to maintain its commitment to the diaeresis, a stylistic choice that sets it apart from other publications. This means that readers will still see spellings like "coöperative" and "reënergize" in the magazine's pages.

The update is a nod to the evolving nature of language and technology. As the internet becomes an increasingly integral part of daily life, it's essential for publications to adapt their style guides to reflect modern usage. The New Yorker's decision is a recognition of this shift and a commitment to remaining relevant in the digital age.

It's worth noting that The New Yorker is not alone in having unique style quirks. Even TechCrunch, a leading technology publication, has its own set of guidelines that have evolved over time. For example, the publication only recently began allowing the use of the Oxford comma.

The implications of The New Yorker's update are far-reaching. As one of the most respected and influential publications in the world, its style guide has a significant impact on the way writers and editors approach language. By embracing modernity, The New Yorker is setting a new standard for journalistic excellence in the digital age.

In conclusion, The New Yorker's update is a welcome move that acknowledges the changing landscape of language and technology. As the publication continues to evolve, it's clear that its commitment to quality and excellence remains unwavering. With this update, The New Yorker is poised to remain a leader in the world of journalism, embracing the future while maintaining its unique voice and style.

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