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

Provide Alternative Leadership Models Leaders within organizations should actively challenge the dominance of forceful, hyper-agentic leadership styles by modeling and rewarding alternative leadership approaches—ones that emphasize collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity. —Esade Business & Law School, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025

Robbins emphasized that the goal of the bill is to ensure that Medicaid remains a payer of last resort. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 21 Feb. 2025

To remake the roster, Brennan and Arizona emphasized production in this past portal cycle. —Antonio Morales, The Athletic, 21 Feb. 2025

Ford values the artistry of performance over commercial considerations, emphasizing the impact of storytelling and giving back through both time and resources. —Elizabeth Stanton, Fox News, 21 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emphasize

• de-emphasize
• re-emphasize

Rhymes for emphasize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

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