Synonyms of emphasis

emphasis

noun

ˈem(p)-fə-səs 

1

as in focus

a special notice or importance given to something

a prep school with a long-established emphasis on sports

Synonyms & Similar Words

• focus
• stress
• weight
• attention
• accent
• accentuation
• concentration
• value
• underscoring
• spotlight
• significance
• consideration
• priority
• import
• moment
• consequence
• precedence
• primacy
• worth
• note
• regard
• heed
• top billing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• minimization
• de-emphasis
• indifference
• disregard
• underemphasis

2

as in intensity

the quality or state of being forceful (as in expression)

the emphasis with which my parents issued the warning about smoking left no doubt that they were serious

Synonyms & Similar Words

• intensity
• intenseness
• aggressiveness
• assertiveness
• violence
• strength
• vigorousness
• forcefulness
• vehemence
• fierceness
• insistence
• warmth
• power
• potency
• eloquence
• fervor
• directness
• passion
• stridency
• fervency
• vividness
• ardor
• straightforwardness
• clearness
• plainness
• vociferousness
• incisiveness
• ardency
• incision
• fervidness
• absoluteness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• weakness
• ambiguity
• subtlety
• mildness
• feebleness
• lightness
• equivocation
• delicacy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of emphasis

This emphasis on local determination is highly valued in American probate history. — Eric Wargotz, Baltimore Sun, 3 Nov. 2026

And in a certain way the lapse embodied a vulnerability, discipline, that was supposed to be a point of emphasis on offense this season with the return of Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator. — Kansas City Star, 3 Nov. 2026

Kim argues the current system puts too much emphasis on insurance companies' profits rather than preventing losses and protecting policyholders. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2026

On homelessness, Gaspar has criticized the city’s approach to homelessness and called for spending to be tied to measurable outcomes, with greater emphasis on cost-effective interim shelter, treatment and clearing encampments. — Teresa Liu, Daily News, 3 Nov. 2026