emphasize - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
emphasize Word Meanings
- to give special importance to something
- to stress or highlight
- to make something more noticeable
emphasize Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
emphasize Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛm.fə.saɪz/
US
/ˈɛm.fə.saɪz/
emphasize Word Etymology
emphasize: em- (put into) + phasis (appearance) = to put into appearance. Historical origin: Greek → Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Think of a painter who emphasizes the colors in a landscape, making them stand out vividly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my finger on the page and push a line a touch closer to my eye. The words shift as I read aloud, and I feel my focus tighten around the center idea. I emphasize by slowing my pace and letting the phrase stand a beat longer. Back in real life, I keep that same nudge when I want a point to land.
Real Context
Emphasize means to give special importance to something, to stress or highlight a point, and to make a detail more noticeable. In speech or writing, you emphasize ideas to guide the listener or reader toward what matters most. It often involves choosing words, tone, or examples that draw attention to a claim or evidence. Emphasize can be followed by that clauses, noun phrases, or prepositional phrases like on the importance of, or with phrases such as place emphasis on. Distinguish emphasize from merely stating something; emphasize conveys deliberate focus. A clear memory image is a designer turning up contrast to make a feature stand out.
Usage Reminders
- Use emphasize to draw attention to a key point
- After emphasize, you can use that or a noun phrase to specify what is important.
- Common partners: emphasize the importance of, place emphasis on.
- Not the same as highlight for a casual notice or stress for physical force.
- In formal writing, emphasize signals deliberate focus and evidence.
Common Misconceptions
- Emphasize = shout or raise voice; not true—it's about importance, not volume.
- Emphasize always requires a that-clause; it can attach to nouns too.
- Emphasize and highlight are identical in all contexts; they carry subtle differences.
- Using emphasize means you must change your tone; you can emphasize with content alone.
- Emphasize is only used in formal writing; it appears in casual speech as well.
Thinking Differences
English tends to pair emphasize with explicit intent and evidential support, so learners often overemphasize tone rather than structure or sourcing.
Learning Tips
- Practice with a clear plan: write two sentences that emphasize a key point.
- Compare emphasize with highlight to feel subtle nuance.
- Use emphasis on nouns and verbs, not just adjectives.
- Notice how emphasis changes tone in formal vs. informal writing.
- Memorize a mental image: boost contrast to draw attention.
- Check collocations: emphasize the importance of, place emphasis on.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'emphasize' mean?
A.To play music loudly
B.To stress or highlight
C.To cook a meal
D.To fix a machine
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'emphasize' correctly?
A.The student tried to emphasize the wrong answer.
B.The teacher tried to emphasize the importance of sleeping in class.
C.The cat tried to emphasize its owner to play.
D.The chef tried to emphasize the plate before serving.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'emphasize'?
A.Laugh
B.Increase
C.Run
D.Read
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'emphasize'?
A.Minimize
B.Expand
C.Reduce
D.Multiply
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where emphasizing something would be crucial?
A.During a quiet study session
B.During a rock concert
C.During a dog show
D.During a painting class
Related Listening
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