de-emphasize

verb

de-em·​pha·​size (ˌ)dē-ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce de-emphasize (audio)
de-emphasized; de-emphasizing; de-emphasizes

transitive verb

: to reduce in relative importance
also : play down
de-emphasis noun

Examples of de-emphasize in a Sentence

you're at a point in your career where you can de-emphasize your academic record and emphasize your work experience
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since then, Disney has taken steps to de-emphasize cable distribution, and the Burbank powerhouse is planning to launch ESPN directly to consumers next year — a move that many in the industry believe will mark the tipping point for the cable channel business. Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 21 Nov. 2024 And, just as significantly, this argument de-emphasizes the possibility of collaborating with adversaries on limiting military AI systems, favoring arms race over arms control. Nir Eisikovits, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024 The panel ultimately recommended that the Secret Service bring in outside leadership, as well as de-emphasize its role in investigating financial crimes. Anders Hagstrom, Fox News, 17 Oct. 2024 This isn’t surprising considering that offenses have de-emphasized throwing the ball downfield in favor of keeping the chains moving. Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for de-emphasize 

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of de-emphasize was in 1938

Dictionary Entries Near de-emphasize

Cite this Entry

“De-emphasize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/de-emphasize. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!