emphasize

American  

[em-fuh-sahyz] / ˈɛm fəˌsaɪz /

especially British, emphasise

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

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emphasize British  

/ ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz /

verb

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

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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

Etymology

Origin of emphasize

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

Example Sentences

The platforms’ attorneys sought to cast doubt on the ailment — emphasizing that there is no formal diagnosis for social media addiction — while also arguing that Kaley had never been treated for it.

From Los Angeles Times

He spent weeks talking with union members during spring training in Florida and Arizona, emphasizing the importance of unity in the ranks.

From Los Angeles Times

People should know where to park, they said, noting the company recently hung new signs to emphasize which spots were designated for which vehicles.

From The Wall Street Journal

The American Medical Association CEO, Dr. John Whyte, does not support autonomous AI prescription renewals, emphasizing physician oversight.

From The Wall Street Journal

Given the frequently heady subject matter, it can’t be emphasized enough how unfailingly pretty the record is.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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