emphasize

[em-fuh-sahyz] / ˈɛm fəˌsaɪz /

VERB

stress, give priority to

Synonyms

STRONGEST

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

STRONG

accent articulate charge dramatize enlarge enunciate headline hit impress italicize mark pinpoint press pronounce punctuate spotlight weight

WEAK

bear down dwell on insist on labor the point limelight make a point make clear make emphatic make much of play up point up put accent on rub in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deny

STRONG

lose mumble

WEAK

depreciate forget ignore play down understate

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.

Yet the celebrations, the authors note, tended to emphasize technological advancements and industrial progress rather than social struggles.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

The researchers emphasize that the impacts of this single pesticide were noted across broad areas of the brain.

From Science Daily • May 21, 2026

Fanning wanted to emphasize Margo’s writerly talents, an intention Kelley shared.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Health officials emphasize, however, that the risk to the public from the outbreak is low.

From Salon • May 9, 2026

But I emphasize the little because since I was in fifth grade and he was in fourth, he’s been taller than me.

From "Fast Pitch" by Nic Stone

Vocabulary lists containing emphasize

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!