Synonyms of emphasize

emphasize

verb

ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

1

as in to highlight

to indicate the importance of by centering attention on

supermarket tabloids that emphasize sensational news stories

Synonyms & Similar Words

• highlight
• feature
• stress
• punctuate
• identify
• accentuate
• point (up)
• accent
• focus
• illuminate
• promote
• foreground
• play up
• bear down on
• press
• make much of
• pinpoint
• advertise
• publicize
• spotlight
• boost
• plug
• overplay

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• tone (down)
• play down
• understate
• minimize
• de-emphasize
• underemphasize
• disparage
• belittle
• discount

2

as in to reinforce

to make more apparent

that huge belt buckle only emphasizes his big gut

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reinforce
• underscore
• enhance
• underline
• deepen
• accentuate
• stress
• strengthen
• bring out
• maximize
• amplify
• italicize
• augment
• supplement
• heighten
• enlarge
• magnify
• boost
• enliven
• beef (up)
• jazz (up)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• de-emphasize
• reduce
• minimize
• decrease
• tone (down)
• diminish
• understate
• lessen
• weaken
• subdue

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of emphasize

Leaders at major tech firms continue to emphasize massive energy needs, but any signs of rising interest rates or tighter credit conditions have hit capital-intensive utility stocks first. — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026

When Skydance acquired Paramount in August 2025, the company wanted to take advantage of Paramount’s familiar consumer brand while also emphasizing Skydance as the corporate parent. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 2 Oct. 2026

To protect businesses and their reputation among customers, Fipps emphasized the importance of thoughtfully building oversight into AI strategy. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2026

In a decision with no noted dissents, the court emphasized that Hoskins was aware that the map would not take effect unless voters approved it in the referendum vote. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 1 Oct. 2026