Emphasize
/ˈɛmfəsaɪz/
Definitions
To give special importance or prominence to something.
/ˈɛmfəsaɪz/
To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
The speaker emphasized the need for teamwork.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: when you really want someone to *get* a point, you emphasize it. Like when your mom tells you *again* to clean your room. You're making it important!
👶 For kids: To make something sound super important!
More Examples
She emphasized the importance of staying hydrated.
The report emphasized the positive aspects of the project.
How It's Used
"The teacher emphasized the importance of studying."
"The CEO emphasized the need for cost-cutting measures."
"The news anchor emphasized the severity of the situation."
Idioms & expressions
Put emphasis on
To highlight a specific aspect or point.
"The article puts emphasis on the environmental impact of the project."
From Late Latin *emphatizare*, from Greek *emphainein* 'to show, indicate', from *en* 'in' + *phainein* 'to show'.
The word 'emphasize' has been used since the mid-19th century, evolving from earlier related terms.
Memory tip
Imagine highlighting a word in a document; you're emphasizing it.
Word Origin
"to show, indicate"