Highlighting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when drawing attention to points or parts of text to make them stand out.

• She was highlighting important sections in the book for her exam.
• The media keeps highlighting the issues of climate change.

Commonly used in both writing and speech to indicate the importance or stress laid on certain words, phrases, or subjects.

• The teacher placed a strong emphasis on the importance of good manners.
• His emphasis on teamwork helped the project succeed.

Typically refers to the action of making a feature more noticeable; often used in design, fashion, or speech.

• The makeup artist's accentuation of her eyes made them appear larger.
• Accentuation of key metrics during presentations is crucial.

Usually refers to physically drawing a line under a word or sentence to indicate its importance; it can also mean figuratively stressing something.

• She was underlining the key points in her notes.
• The report kept underlining the urgent need for policy changes.

Often used to draw attention to important information in texts, documents, or presentations. It can be used in both visual and verbal contexts.

• The report includes a section highlighting key findings.
• Use a marker for highlighting important dates in your calendar.

Commonly used to stress the importance or significance of something, often in both spoken and written communication. Suitable for everyday use as well as formal contexts.

• The teacher emphasized the need for regular study habits.
• We need to emphasize the benefits of this new policy.

Typically used in more formal contexts to bring out or emphasize a particular feature or detail. Often used in art, fashion, or speech.

• The designer used bright colors to accentuate the modern features of the building.
• Her speech was meant to accentuate the importance of community service.

Usually visual, used to physically mark text with a line beneath it to signal importance or for emphasis. Can also be used figuratively in speech or writing.

• Underline the key terms in the chapter for quick reference.
• His actions underline his commitment to the project.