emphasize

Universal Words (BrE also emphasise) verb 1 to give special importance to sth: [VN] His speech emphasized the importance of attracting industry to the town. * [Vthat] She emphasized that their plan would mean sacrifices and hard work. * [Vwh-] He emphasized how little was known about the disease. * [VNthat] It should be emphasized that this is only one possible explanation. [also Vspeech] 2 [VN] to make sth more noticeable: She swept her hair back from her face to emphasize her high cheekbones. * The rising tone of his voice emphasized his panic. 3 [VN] to give extra force to a word or phrase when you are speaking, especially to show that it is important SYNSTRESS