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 researchers emphasized that early morning shift workers have not been widely studied, and the current trial lasted only four weeks and included otherwise healthy adults.

From Science Daily

Zaalan loves how modern clowning embraces failure and emphasizes shared human experiences.

From Los Angeles Times

Management made positive commentary about the domestic economy earlier this month, “representing a shift from several quarters of emphasizing persistent macro softness, though geopolitical risks remain a consideration,” Kuhn says.

From The Wall Street Journal

To overcome these barriers, scientists emphasize the need for collaboration across disciplines.

From Science Daily

In response to questions, both the American Heart Assn. and Department of Health and Human Services emphasized their shared objectives over any differences.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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