highlight - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
highlight Word Meanings
- to emphasize or make something stand out
- the most important or memorable part of something
highlight Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
highlight Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhaɪlaɪt/
US
/ˈhaɪlaɪt/
highlight Word Etymology
highlight = high + light. Origin: Old English through Middle English. Imagine a bright yellow marker used to make text stand out; it captures the idea of bringing attention to something important.
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 move my hand to the page and push the highlighter along the line. The ink changes how the page looks, and the sentences shift into view as the color brightens. I adjust my grip and hold the pen steady, letting the emphasis sit where it belongs. Later I place the marked lines in my notes and keep them close, so the key ideas turn up first when I read again.
Real Context
Highlight is a versatile verb meaning to emphasize something or to make it stand out, and a noun describing the most noticeable part, feature, or point of interest. In writing, you highlight text with a marker or by using digital styling to draw attention to key ideas, dates, or terms. In everyday speech, you can say a presentation highlights the main findings, a movie highlights its emotional climax, or a résumé highlights your strongest skills. The word carries the sense of bringing attention to what matters, often serving as a bridge between initial information and its meaningful takeaway.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use highlight to focus on key ideas, dates, or terms. 2) Distinguish between verb and noun by context. 3) Prefer highlight over over-explanation in notes. 4) Don’t overuse; select only the most important points. 5) Pair with a concise summary.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing highlight with literal brightness or color only.
- Treating highlight as the entire section rather than a key point.
- Using highlight the same way as emphasis or focus in every context.
- Thinking highlight always has a positive connotation.
- Mistaking highlight as a replacement for a summary.
Thinking Differences
In English, highlight is used flexibly for both emphasis and key points; learners often confuse highlighting with simply brightening text or with emphasis in every context.
Learning Tips
- Practice using highlight as a verb with nouns that follow.
- Pair highlighted items with a short note or summary.
- Learn common collocations: highlight reel, highlight of the day, highlight a point.
- Differentiate highlight from emphasize; use emphasize for broader intent.
- Read aloud: feel the emphasis without overloading a sentence.
- Review edited sentences to ensure only essential points are highlighted.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'highlight'?
A.Prominent
B.Brightness
C.Visible
D.Dull
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'highlight' used correctly?
A.She highlighted her hair with blue color.
B.He highlight the main idea of the story.
C.She used a highlight to write down the important points.
D.The highlight of the party was the fireworks display.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the opposite of 'highlight'?
A.Illuminate
B.Conceal
C.Accentuate
D.Showcase
Step 4: Opposite Words
Pick the word similar to 'highlight'.
A.Accent
B.Subdue
C.Obscure
D.Enhance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'highlight'?
A.Giving a presentation at work
B.Watching a movie at the cinema
C.Cooking a new recipe
D.Cleaning the house
Related Listening
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