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

The progression eventually led to a bridal collection introduced roughly three years ago, with plans to place greater emphasis on higher-impact pieces, including larger stones suited to red carpet and celebrity dressing in the fall. — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 14 July 2026

Other formats mentioned include balanced political talk, non-political talk, and sports, with an emphasis on local teams. — Richard Wagoner, Daily News, 13 July 2026

But the fragmented nature of NPB has placed an emphasis on local revenues for franchises like the Hawks. — Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 13 July 2026

Ecoventura This Galápagos Islands specialist has a handful of Photography Departures that follow the same routes as other sailings, but add an emphasis on wildlife photography. — Kristen E. Pope, Travel + Leisure, 13 July 2026