emphatic

[em-fat-ik] / ɛmˈfæt ɪk /

ADJECTIVE

insistent, unequivocal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assertive categorical confident definite definitive energetic explicit forceful impressive pronounced resounding sober sure telling unmistakable vigorous

WEAK

absolute accented assured certain cogent decided determined direct distinct dogmatic dynamic earnest express flat for a face forcible important marked momentous no mistake pointed positive potent powerful significant solemn stressed striking strong trenchant

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous equivocal idle impotent inactive indefinite indistinct ineffective inexact insignificant lethargic obscure uncertain unconfident unimportant unsure vague weak

WEAK

reserved understated unpronounced

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.

She then simply turned away and playing the diva, gave an emphatic "No".

From BBC • May 10, 2026

When CNN co-moderator Elex Michaelson asked Villaraigosa if he would cancel California’s much-maligned high-speed rail project, the candidate’s emphatic “No” thundered down like a Lebron James dunk.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Today the big black-and-white birds with their red screwdriver bills thrill East Coast beachgoers with their emphatic whistles once again.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

"We like to be in a hunting position," Gunners midfielder Frida Maanum said following Wednesday's emphatic 7-0 victory over Leicester.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Grandma was soft-spoken, calm, but emphatic as she said, “Well, Lois, you’ve tried every polite and proper way of getting that job back. I think some sort of drastic action is called for.”

From "Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High" by Melba Pattillo Beals

Vocabulary lists containing emphatic

List 7

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