emphasize

especially British, em·pha·sise

[em-fuh-sahyz]

verb (used with object)

emphasized, emphasizing 

1. to give emphasis to; lay stress upon; stress: to emphasize the eyes with mascara.

   to emphasize a point;

   to emphasize the eyes with mascara.

   Synonyms: highlight, accentuate, accent

emphasize

/ ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to give emphasis or prominence to; stress

Other Word Forms

• hyperemphasize verb (used with object)
• misemphasize verb (used with object)
• reemphasize verb (used with object)
• superemphasize verb (used with object)
• unemphasizing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of emphasize¹

First recorded in 1820–30; emphas(is) + -ize

Example Sentences

Carson Group’s Detrick has emphasized in his research that every recent bull run that has made it to its third birthday has continued at least until year five.

Read more on MarketWatch

Abortion-rights groups have repeatedly emphasized the safety of medication abortion and have criticized efforts to restrict its access.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The museum’s motto, “Discover the Past. Protect the Future,” emphasizes scientific understanding as a backdrop to environmental stewardship.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Mr. Leguizamo eases up on the ferociously funny clowning at which he is so expert to emphasize Nelson’s frantic desperation to avoid having to admit he has failed his family, numbing his anxieties with booze.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Unlike other school rankings, this list emphasizes one point: How well did the college prepare students for financial success?

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• accentuate 
• affirm 
• assert 
• highlight 
• indicate 
• maintain 
• point out 
• reiterate 
• repeat 
• underline 
• underscore