emphasize

verb

ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce emphasize (audio)
Definition of emphasizenext
1
as in to highlight
to indicate the importance of by centering attention on supermarket tabloids that emphasize sensational news stories

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to reinforce
to make more apparent that huge belt buckle only emphasizes his big gut

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of emphasize Silverman contends that its proposal wouldn’t do any of that, and emphasized that the 53 acres involved aren’t unspoiled woods or fields. — Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 10 July 2026 Barber has frequently discussed the extensive work that goes into each draft, emphasizing how much collaboration occurs before selections are made. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 Smith’s grandmother, Angela Perdew, emphasized the importance of fireworks safety when speaking with WMC. — Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 10 July 2026 Advertisement The first inkling of recalibration came when tech bros suddenly started emphasizing the importance of taste. — Miranda Shanahan, Time, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for emphasize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for emphasize
  1. highlight
  2. reinforce
  3. feature
  4. underscore
  5. stress
  6. enhance
  7. underline
  8. deepen
Verb
  • Raftelis highlighted the November caseload for one probation officer who had a total of 753 cases under their supervision.
    — Nathan Pilling July 15, Kansas City Star, 15 July 2026
  • The complaint specifically highlights Barros’ current role leading the MCCA — a quasi–state entity in which DCAMM officials sit on its Board of Directors.
    — Tim Dunn, Boston Herald, 15 July 2026
Definition of highlight
Verb
  • The discovery of the buckling columns launched a major effort to shore up — or reinforce — the building’s weakest points, with crews using emergency jacks and installing new steel supports.
    — Gloria Pazmino, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
  • Ship operators are favoring the Iranian route over the corridor along Oman’s coast, reinforcing the impact of the tanker attacks earlier this week, according to the trade intelligence firm Kpler.
    — Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 10 July 2026
Definition of reinforce
Verb
  • The event also featured a concert headlined by Memphis rapper Big Boogie, the Star-Telegram previously reported.
    — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026
  • The short clip features dramatic music with Batman’s back at the center.
    — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 15 July 2026
Definition of feature
Verb
  • Americans’ confidence in Big Tech is at a new low, a Gallup poll showed, underscoring the challenge tech companies face.
    — J.D. Capelouto, semafor.com, 14 July 2026
  • The shootings this week underscore the years-long push for body cameras, both from the public and the officers themselves.
    — Holmes Lybrand, CNN Money, 14 July 2026
Definition of underscore
Verb
  • Baking soda desiccates plant leaves by removing moisture from the foliage, stressing the plant and ultimately resulting in death.
    — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 4 July 2026
  • No opponent at this tournament has found a way to stress him.
    — Liam Twomey, New York Times, 4 July 2026
Definition of stress
Verb
  • That impressive steak, seasoned just right to enhance the natural flavors of the wagyu beef, is just one reason to visit Enzo Steakhouse at Trilith in Fayetteville.
    — Justin Brown, AJC.com, 12 July 2026
  • Wider Michelin tires come standard, as does enhanced regenerative braking and handy access panels to make servicing easier – a feature your mechanic will certainly appreciate.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 11 July 2026
Definition of enhance
Verb
  • In May 2019, Schumer experienced a challenging pregnancy underlined by bouts of debilitating nausea and vomiting, a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum.
    — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 11 July 2026
  • The bonfires are the centerpiece of the loyalist calendar, underlining an identity built on being British.
    — Kara Fox, CNN Money, 10 July 2026
Definition of underline
Verb
  • Records showing the Cuban government has secretly stockpiled cash as people on the island cook their food over firewood has only deepened the sentiment that the government in Havana must go.
    — Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 11 July 2026
  • This move completes Meta's ad automation, offering advertisers free creative variations and deepening platform dependence.
    — Gabriel Alin Zainescu, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026
Definition of deepen

Browse Nearby Words

emphasis
emphasize
emphasized
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Cite this Entry

“Emphasize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/emphasize. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on emphasize

Nglish: Translation of emphasize for Spanish Speakers

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