What is emphasize? Pronunciation and usage in English

emphasize means . Learn how to pronounce and use emphasize through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of emphasize

emphasizeverb

/ˈɛmfəsʌɪz/
Definition & pronunciation of emphasize

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "emphasize." It can be tricky for English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is typically divided into three syllables:

  • em - (like the beginning of "ember")
  • phas - (like "fay-us")
  • ize - (like "ize" in "size")

2. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet - This is the most accurate):

/ɪmˈfɑːs.ɪz/

Let's break that down:

  • ɪm: A short, almost unstressed "ih" sound (like in "bit").
  • ˈfɑːs: This is the stressed syllable. "fɑːs" has a slightly rounded mouth shape – like you're about to say "fay" but holding it a little longer and with a clearer “ah” sound.
  • ɪz: Again, a short, unstressed "ih" sound (like in "size").

3. How to Say it in Practice (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with "em": Say "em" – short and quick.
  2. Move to "phas": Say "fay-us". The key here is the “ah” sound (like in “father”). Don’t rush it.
  3. Finish with "ize": Say "ize" – the same sound as the word "size."

Putting it together: em - fay-us - ize = emphasizes

4. Tips for Improvement:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn pronunciation is to hear it. Search for "how to pronounce emphasize" on YouTube or listen to it in a song or movie.
  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.
  • Focus on the Stress: The emphasis is clearly on the second syllable ("phas"). Don’t say the first syllable too strongly.

Resources:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the word slowly for you?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word?

Usage and examples with the word emphasize in English

Let's break down how to use the word "emphasize" in English. It's a versatile word with a few slightly different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: To Stress or Highlight

At its simplest, "emphasize" means to draw attention to something by stressing it or highlighting it. It’s about making something more important or noticeable.

  • Example: "The teacher emphasized the importance of studying for the exam." (She made it clear how crucial studying was.)
  • Example: "The advertisement emphasized the product's durability." (They highlighted that it lasts a long time.)

2. Common Ways to Use "Emphasize"

Here are ways you can use "emphasize" in different contexts, with examples:

  • With Actions/Verbs: You often use "emphasize" after a verb like 'stress,' 'highlight,' 'point out,' or 'stress.'

    • "Emphasize the key differences between the two plans." (Meaning: Don't just mention the differences; really stress them.)
    • "Highlight the opportunities for growth in this role.” (Meaning: Make sure people notice the chances for advancement.)
    • "Point out the potential risks involved.” (Similar to emphasize – bring something to attention)

  • With Ideas/Points: You can use it to show you're focusing on a particular idea.

    • "Emphasize the need for collaboration between departments." (Meaning: It’s really important to focus on how departments work together.)
    • "Emphasize that this is a critical decision.” (Meaning: Stress the significance of the decision.)

  • With Qualities/Features:

    • “The company emphasized its commitment to customer service.” (They strongly highlighted their dedication to customers.)

3. Phrases Using "Emphasize"

  • Emphasize the point: This means to strongly stress the main idea.

    • “Don’t just repeat what I said; emphasize the point about the deadline.”

  • Emphasize an issue: To strongly highlight a problem.

    • “The politician emphasized an issue of social justice in her speech.”

4. Synonyms

Here are some words that can be used instead of "emphasize," depending on the context:

  • Stress
  • Highlight
  • Underscore
  • Stress
  • Point out
  • Accentuate
  • Stress
  • Focus on

5. Incorrect Usage – A Common Mistake

Don't say: “I will emphasize him.” You don’t “emphasize” a person. You focus on a person, highlight their qualities, or draw attention to them.

Let's Practice!

Can you rewrite these sentences using "emphasize" or a similar word?

  1. The professor wanted students to understand that attendance was important.
  2. The politician made sure everyone knew about the new tax policy.
  3. The advertisement showed how easy the product was to use.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Help you practice using "emphasize" in a sentence?
  • Explain how it differs from a similar word (like "stress") in more detail?

Synonyms for the word emphasize

Practice with vocabulary emphasize

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. During the press conference, the spokesperson sought to ______ the company's unwavering commitment to sustainability.
  2. The new marketing campaign will ______ key benefits of our product to attract a wider audience.
  3. The instructor decided to ______ the importance of critical thinking in academic writing.
  4. Success in this project will ______ heavily on your ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following verbs can be used to describe the act of giving special importance to a particular aspect or idea? a) downplay b) stress c) disregard d) highlight e) trivialize

  2. During the negotiation, the union representative chose to ______ the unfair working conditions affecting their members. a) obscure b) underscore c) minimize d) conceal e) neglect

  3. The company's new mission statement aims to ______ its core values of innovation and customer satisfaction. a) diminish b) accentuate c) overlook d) trivialise e) feature

  4. It is crucial to ______ the information provided in the report for accuracy before publication. a) verify b) invent c) ignore d) fabricate e) confirm

  5. The team's success will ultimately ______ on everyone's willingness to collaborate effectively. a) rely b) depend c) insist d) object e) persist

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The manager wanted to make it clear that prompt attendance was extremely important for all staff. Rewrite using a form of "emphasize":

  2. The government spokesperson highlighted the urgent need for immediate environmental protection measures. Rewrite using a form of "emphasize":

  3. The new guidelines really push the idea of flexible working hours and remote options for employees. Rewrite, replacing "push" with a suitable alternative (do not use "emphasize" or its forms):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. emphasize
  2. highlight
  3. emphasize
  4. depend

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) stress, d) highlight
  2. b) underscore
  3. b) accentuate, e) feature
  4. a) verify, e) confirm
  5. a) rely, b) depend

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The manager wished to emphasize the importance of prompt attendance for all staff.
  2. The government spokesperson placed emphasis on the urgent need for immediate environmental protection measures.
  3. The new guidelines advocate for flexible working hours and remote options for employees.

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