Underscored Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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underscored

[ˌʌndəˈskɔːrd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

text emphasis

To underscore something means to emphasize it or give it importance. This can be applicable in various contexts, such as writing or speech, where highlighting a concept or idea can help in conveying a stronger message. The term suggests a literal act of marking beneath a word or phrase to draw attention. It may also refer to confirming or reinforcing a point in conversation or discussion.

Synonyms

emphasize, highlight, reinforce, stress.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher underscored the importance of homework.
  • She underscored her commitment to the project during the meeting.
  • The report underscored the need for policy change.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often underscore themes or morals in stories to draw readers' attention to deeper meanings.
  • In poetry, underscoring can signify important emotions or messages for readers to focus on.

Education

  • Teachers often advise students to underscore key ideas while taking notes to aid memory and understanding.
  • In educational settings, underscoring helps differentiate main concepts from supporting details in texts.

Technology

  • In coding, the underscore character (_) is frequently used to indicate spaces in file names or variables.
  • Many software applications use underscoring as a tool for highlighting important elements in user interfaces.

Pop Culture

  • In music, the term is often used to indicate songs that highlight important feelings or messages within lyrics.
  • Movies and shows use underscored moments to accentuate emotional scenes, making them more impactful.

Origin of 'underscored'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'under' and 'score', meaning to mark below a line, which dates back to the 17th century.
  • Originally, scoring was used in writing to indicate important parts in notes and texts.

The term 'underscore' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the practice of drawing a line underneath a word to highlight its significance—hence its literal meaning of 'to mark beneath.' The prefix 'under-' indicates a position below, while 'score' in this context refers to a line or mark. Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression for emphasizing or stressing any point rather than just physical text. By the 20th century, the use of 'underscore' expanded beyond written language to encompass a broader application in conversation and analysis, illustrating not just physical emphasis but also emotional or intellectual assertion of ideas.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,588, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.