Definition

Noun 1. Special importance, value, or prominence given to something: The act of giving particular force, attention, or significance to a specific idea, fact, or part of something. 2. Stress laid on a word, phrase, or syllable to make it stand out: In speech, the special force or prominence given to a particular sound, syllable, or word. 3. Intensity or forcefulness of expression: The quality in speech or writing of expressing an idea, feeling, or opinion with particular strength or conviction.

Usage and Examples

• General Importance:
  • The school's curriculum places a strong emphasis on science and mathematics.
  • In his speech, the mayor put the emphasis on economic recovery.
• Linguistic Stress:
  • In the word "emphasis," the emphasis is on the first syllable: EM-fa-sis.
  • You can change the meaning of a sentence by shifting the vocal emphasis onto different words.
• Forceful Expression:
  • She spoke with great emphasis to ensure her point was understood.
  • The report's emphasis on the urgent need for action was clear and powerful.

Advanced Usage

• Lay/Place/Put Emphasis on (something): To give special importance or attention to something.
  • The new policy lays great emphasis on environmental protection.
• With Emphasis: In a way that shows something is particularly important.
  • He repeated the warning with emphasis.

Variants and Related Words

• Emphasize (verb): To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
  • I must emphasize that this is only a temporary solution.
• Emphatic (adjective): Expressed or performed with emphasis; forceful and definite.
  • She was emphatic in her refusal.

Synonyms

• Stress: Special importance or significance.
• Importance: The state or fact of being of great significance or value.
• Accent: A distinctive emphasis given to a syllable, word, or note.
• Prominence: The state of being important or famous; the fact of projecting from something.

Idioms and Phrases

• (To place/put) the main emphasis: To identify the most important priority or focus.
  • For now, the main emphasis should be on patient safety.

Noun

1. the relative prominence of a syllable or musical note (especially with regard to stress or pitch)
   • he put the stress on the wrong syllable
2. special and significant stress by means of position or repetition e.g.
3. intensity or forcefulness of expression
   • the vehemence of his denial
   • his emphasis on civil rights
4. special importance or significance
   • the red light gave the central figure increased emphasis
   • the room was decorated in shades of grey with distinctive red accents