underscore
To emphasize or highlight the importance of something
Examples
In a meeting
“The data breach underscores the need for better cybersecurity training.”
Over coffee
“This week's weather really underscores why we need better winter coats.”
Why this word
emphasize
underscore implies drawing attention to something by highlighting it, often suggesting it reinforces a point already made
highlight
highlight means to make prominent, while underscore specifically means to emphasize by marking or reinforcing importance
stress
stress means to give emphasis through force or insistence, while underscore suggests marking or reinforcing the importance of something already present
Usage tip
Use when you want to emphasize that something proves or reinforces a point. More formal than 'shows'.
Etymology
Literally 'to draw a line under' for emphasis, from under + score (mark)
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Related words
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
fundamental
Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
emphasize
Give special importance or prominence to something
trivial
Of little importance or value; minor
spotlight
To draw attention to or highlight something important
understate
To describe something as less significant than it actually is