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Interesting, i can see where the risk of confusion is. But wondering how it could have been written for similar effect...

" For the teens, the psychologist's advice is literally: well, maybe don't be such a bitch in the first place, Mom. "

Feels a bit confusing. Is there a better way?

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Actually you're making me think that I picked a bad example to plant a flag on. The general point, about not using quotation marks as a rhetorical device or snark weapon, is a good one: it really does subtly degrade online discourse. But the example doesn't show that as clearly as it might, and the commenter was being a good sport and didn't do anything wrong. Sorry!

This type of explanation and review is a great example of why I appreciate the manner and spirit of moderation on HN.

Part of the confusion arises from use of the word "literally" in literally the opposite of its sense.

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