Definitions

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.

For Patton Oswalt, it’s at slop bowls, an Internet slang term used to describe fast-casual meals that emphasize efficiency rather than flavor or any soul.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2026

"I can't emphasize enough how awful the process is to not know what's coming next," she said.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

They emphasize that laboratory studies will be needed to confirm the observed relationships between gut bacteria and neurodevelopment.

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026

“It’s important to emphasize that our fundamental business drivers remain strong,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Many lacked basic skills because the Nazi system of education did not emphasize academic subjects.

From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

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!