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.

Reels, stories and stitches all emphasize our humanity.

From Salon • May 4, 2026

The Brewers traded for him in April of last year, had him ditch his four-seam fastball in favor of a cutter and instructed him to emphasize his sinker.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

But emphasize the word “am” and his question is about identity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

Some Angelenos, like David Lefkowith, president of the Mandeville Canyon Assn., hope it will be more accepting of fire-resistant native species and emphasize less expensive home hardening measures.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

“Just, when you deliver it, make sure you emphasize only one per day, in the morning.”

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack

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!