Emphasize

Definition

Emphasize is a verb that means to give special importance, attention, or prominence to something. It is used to highlight or stress a point, making it stand out as significant or noteworthy.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz/
• Respelling: EM-fuh-syz

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz/
• Respelling: EM-fuh-syz

Etymology

The word "emphasize" originates from the Greek "emphaínein," meaning "to exhibit" or "to display," which evolved through Latin "emphasis" (meaning "significance"). It entered English in the early 19th century, meaning to stress or give importance to.

Derivatives

• Emphasis (noun)
• Emphatic (adjective)
• Emphatically (adverb)
• Emphasized (verb, past tense)
• Emphasizing (verb, present participle)

Synonyms

• Highlight
• Stress
• Underline

Antonyms

• Downplay
• Minimize
• Ignore

Usage

The verb "emphasize" is commonly used to indicate a point of particular importance. For example, "The speaker emphasized the importance of education in society." It is frequently applied in speech, writing, and visual contexts to make specific points or ideas stand out.

Related Terms

• Accentuate: To make something more noticeable.
• Underscore: To highlight or stress the importance of something.
• Intensify: To make something more pronounced or significant.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To give special importance or attention to something: Refers to making a point, idea, or feature stand out as significant.
  • Example: "The teacher emphasized the need for punctuality in class."
• To highlight or stress: Used to convey the act of drawing focus to a particular part or aspect.
  • Example: "The advertisement emphasized the product’s eco-friendly qualities."