emphasize
Americanverb (used with object)
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of emphasize
First recorded in 1820–30; emphas(is) + -ize
Explanation
To emphasize is to make something important, or stress it, like when you were little and your parents would always emphasize the importance of looking both ways before crossing the street. They told you again and again and again. And again. The verb emphasize works when you really want to stress a point or give extra weight to an issue. Emphasize comes from words that mean “significance” and “to present or show.” A player who finally makes the varsity team might emphasize this achievement by always wearing his practice jersey — even off the field, or you might emphasize the importance of being on time by locking the door on latecomers.
Vocabulary lists containing emphasize
The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2
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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1
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Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Emphasize the word “I” and his question is about worthiness due to his lack of obvious qualifications for the monumental leadership position being offered.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026
Emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious behavior to a trusted adult.
From Salon • Oct. 21, 2024
Emphasize to your siblings that at some point, you may not be able to care for your mother, and that you all need some plan for if or when that happens.
From Slate • Feb. 10, 2022
Emphasize that Floyd’s killing remains front and center in the minds of rally participants.
From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021
Emphasize the camp motto, "Each for all, and all for each."
From Camping For Boys by Gibson, Henry William
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
