Underline Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
underline
[หสndษrlaษชn ]
Definitions
text editing
To draw a line under a word or phrase to give emphasis or importance; to highlight or mark something as significant.
Synonyms
emphasize, highlight, underscore.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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underline |
Typically applied in written or printed text to draw attention to specific parts. Often used in educational or formal documentation.
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emphasize |
Used in both spoken and written contexts to stress the importance or significance of something. It has a broad application, from casual conversation to formal speeches.
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highlight |
Often used to indicate something as particularly important or noteworthy. Can be used metaphorically in both spoken and written contexts and literally when using a highlighter pen.
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underscore |
Similar to 'underline,' it means to draw attention to something but is often used in a more figurative or formal tone, especially in written or academic contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I always underline important information in my notes.
- She asked me to underline the key points in the report.
typography
A line drawn under a word or phrase for emphasis or decoration.
Synonyms
highlight, marker, underscore.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
underline |
Used for emphasizing text in writing or printed material by drawing a line under the words.
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underscore |
Used in digital text for spacing or emphasis, especially in usernames and email addresses. In non-digital contexts, it can mean to stress or emphasize a point.
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highlight |
Used for drawing special attention to a word or section of text, often with a bright color or a different format.
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marker |
Refers to the tool used to make marks, often used for writing, drawing, or highlighting text. It can be a colored pen or a felt-tip pen.
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Examples of usage
- The title is in bold with an underline beneath it.
- The text had a red underline to indicate a spelling mistake.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar and Writing
- Teachers often ask students to underline important points in notes to help with studying and understanding.
- In digital writing, underlining is often reserved for hyperlinks, making it a crucial part of online reading.
Art and Design
- Graphic designers use underlining to draw attention to specific elements in visual communication, like ads or posters.
- Modern typography has started to use underlining sparingly in favor of other methods like bolding or coloring to maintain clarity.
Psychology
- Research suggests that underlining important information can enhance memory retention among students.
- Neuroscientific studies show that visual cues like underlining engage different areas of the brain that aid learning.
Pop Culture
- In comic books, underlining or special highlighting is often used to emphasize dialogue or thoughts.
- The phrase 'under the radar' is often referenced in popular media, which ties back to the concept of underlining importance in communication.
Origin of 'underline'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the combination of 'under' and 'line', first recorded in English use during the early 19th century.
- Many languages use a similar structure, reflecting a universal need to emphasize important text.
The word 'underline' originated in the 17th century, combining the prefix 'under-' with the word 'line'. It has been used in the context of marking emphasis or importance in text ever since.
See also: delineate, line, lineage, lineal, linear, lineated, lined, linen, lines, lineup, lining, online, outline, rectilinear, underlining.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #16,439, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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