emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress

emphasized the need for reform

Synonyms

• accent
• accentuate
• feature
• foreground
• highlight
• illuminate
• play up
• point (up)
• press
• punctuate
• stress

Examples of emphasize in a Sentence

supermarket tabloids that emphasize sensational news stories

that huge belt buckle only emphasizes his big gut

Recent Examples on the Web

Sezzle acknowledges the impact of macroeconomic conditions on consumer spending and credit risk, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management and sustainable business practices. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024

Interviews and discussions ran longer and looser, and since the set itself was so quiet, these talky segments emphasized the unsettling absence of background noise. —Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 6 Nov. 2024

Hudson emphasized that cheering for strangers should happen more often. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

Callers do not need to be suicidal to get help from 988, Olivares emphasized. —Stephanie Innes, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emphasize

• de-emphasize
• re-emphasize

Kids Definition

emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

: to place emphasis on : stress as being important or so as to stand out