emphasise

Everyday

1. To show that something is especially important. tree →
2. To say a word or sound more strongly. tree →
3. To make something more noticeable, like a line or a colour. tree →

In the lessons

In English, you emphasise key points in writing with bold, underlining or words like «especially»; in speaking, you stress a word; in art, colour can emphasise a shape; phrases: «emphasise the point», «emphasise the importance of».

Examples

• The teacher emphasised the importance of checking our answers. tree →
• Underline the words you want to emphasise. tree →
• She emphasised the word «never». tree →
• Bright colours emphasise the eyes in the painting. tree →
• The firefighter emphasised: get out, stay out, call 999. tree →
• He emphasised that the test was only for practice. tree →

Note

UK spelling «emphasise»; US spelling «emphasize». Noun: emphasis (plural emphases). Do not say «emphasise on»: say «emphasise the point» or «put emphasis on».