emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce emphasize (audio)
emphasized; emphasizing

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress
emphasized the need for reform

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That said, many policymakers have emphasized taking a wait and see approach to monetary policy in the coming months as the economic impact of government policy plays out. Simon Moore, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025 Lawmakers who support using STAR bonds emphasize that taxpayers aren’t on the hook if the projects don’t make enough money to pay back the debt. Kansas City Star, 14 July 2025 Both organizations emphasized improvements made to welfare systems and reporting procedures since 2016, when Endemol merged with Shine, and again in 2020 when Banijay acquired Endemol Shine. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 July 2025 Chen emphasized that monitoring sweetener intake and considering a child's genetic predisposition may be critical in preventing early puberty and its associated long-term health risks. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for emphasize

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of emphasize was in 1793

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Emphasize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emphasize. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

emphasize

verb
em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce emphasize (audio)
emphasized; emphasizing
: to place emphasis on : stress as being important or so as to stand out

More from Merriam-Webster on emphasize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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