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

Bleeding ranchers While expensive cattle may have given some American cattle producers breathing room, ranchers who spoke with CNN emphasized that high prices haven’t ensured easy wealth. — Max Saltman, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026

Ultimately, the best exit preparation begins long before selling, emphasizing building a business that can thrive independently. — Lien De Pau, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Trump noted that data centers have the potential to significantly benefit communities, but emphasized that location is key. — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 21 Aug. 2026

The company never fails to emphasize that its frequent interventions are designed to provide a more accurate picture of media consumption—which, as everyone at least seems to agree, is what it’s accomplished with its out-of-home measurement. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 21 Aug. 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