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

In his comeback bid, Brown is trying to chart his own course and steer clear of national politics, emphasizing his record of taking on corporate interests. — Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 3 Nov. 2026

Quinn altered his approach to organized team activities and training camp, and drilled situational football incessantly in an effort to emphasize the details. — Tashan Reed, Washington Post, 2 Nov. 2026

Bryant emphasized that the current branch actually has more drive-thru lanes than are being proposed for the new site, and that the project will replace a vacant building that’s blighting the neighborhood. — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 2 Nov. 2026

Along with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), UConn Basketball will dedicate a game to raising awareness for mental health and emphasizing the importance of mental well-being. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 2 Nov. 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