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.

When pressed on this, Angle and partners emphasize that the Familiar’s wordless interactions inherently soften its approach, making it more like R2-D2 than M3GAN.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Reels, stories and stitches all emphasize our humanity.

From Salon • May 4, 2026

Sometimes the forest greens turn red to emphasize extreme states of mind and signal hallucinations.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Yet many scientists continue to emphasize RCP8.5 in climate research, with new studies published daily.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

As if to emphasize his thoughts the mosquitos—with die fire gone and protective smoke no longer saving him—came back in thick, nostril-clogging swarms.

From "Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen

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!