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

Williams’ longest completion — 47 yards to Rome Odunze — came on a scramble drill, which the Bears emphasized all offseason as an area of improvement. — Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Financial experts have long emphasized the urgent need for Sac City Unified to identify and implement a long-term fiscal plan that would address its financial distress rather than merely delay the crash. — Chaewon Chung, Sacbee.com, 14 Sep. 2026

The Indian central bank has repeatedly emphasized its focus on core inflation, which is yet to become a major concern. — Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 14 Sep. 2026

Korean skin care tends to emphasize hydration, barrier support, gentle formulations, and sun protection. — Sophie Dunne, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 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
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

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