emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress

emphasized the need for reform

Synonyms of emphasize

• highlight
• feature
• stress

Examples of emphasize in a Sentence

supermarket tabloids that emphasize sensational news stories

that huge belt buckle only emphasizes his big gut

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers emphasize that the system is designed to detect mechanical stress only. —New Atlas, 8 Feb. 2026

Additionally, Mohan emphasized Western Digital’s revised long-term growth targets. —Tipranks, CNBC, 8 Feb. 2026

Her campaign has emphasized aggressive affordability measures, tenant protections and a more transparent City Hall, while leaning heavily on grassroots organizing and progressive voter outreach. —Teresa Liu, Daily News, 7 Feb. 2026

Perry continued to preach the patient and long-term nature of his reshaping of the roster, emphasizing 2027-28 as when there will be salary cap flexibility when big contracts for Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan — and potentially Sabonis, if eventually traded — are off the books. —Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 7 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emphasize

• de-emphasize
• re-emphasize

Rhymes for emphasize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

: to place emphasis on : stress as being important or so as to stand out