Synonyms for

Emphasis

Verb / ˈemfʌsʌs / / ˈemfʌsɪs / Another word for emphasis — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Emphasis means giving special importance or attention to something.

Synonyms & similar words

stress vehemence accent stress importance accent weight force highlight intensity prominence significance underlining urgency accentuation dramatization exaggeration focus

Synonyms by register

Formal

stress prominence salience accentuation

Informal

focus highlight punch

Literary

gravitas weight

Antonyms

understatement negligence inattention minimization insignificance triviality

Common collocations

  • place emphasis on
  • lay emphasis on
  • give emphasis to
  • with emphasis
  • strong emphasis
  • particular emphasis
  • special emphasis
  • added emphasis

Word family

noun emphasis
verb emphasize
adjective emphatic
adverb emphatically

Usage note

While 'emphasis' and 'stress' are often interchangeable, 'emphasis' can refer to a general focus or importance, whereas 'stress' often implies a deliberate effort to highlight something. Avoid using 'emphasis' as a verb; use 'emphasize' instead.

Example sentences

  1. Her emphasis on hard work encouraged me to study harder.
  2. The teacher put emphasis on the importance of good behavior.
  3. In this story, the author places emphasis on the power of love.
  4. The emphasis of the presentation was on environmental issues.
  5. He spoke with emphasis to make sure everyone could hear him.

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