Top 53 Slang For Emphasize – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to making a statement, sometimes words alone just don’t cut it. That’s where slang for emphasize comes in. We’ve gathered a collection of the most powerful and attention-grabbing phrases that will take your communication skills to the next level. Whether you want to express excitement, frustration, or sheer amazement, this list has got you covered. Get ready to supercharge your vocabulary and make your words pack a punch!

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1. Highlight

To highlight something means to draw attention to it or make it stand out. It is often used to emphasize important information or key points.

For example, in a presentation, a speaker might say, “Let me highlight the main findings of our research.”
In a written document, a writer might use bold or italics to highlight a specific word or phrase.
A teacher might tell a student, “Make sure to highlight the key concepts in your notes.”

2. Accentuate

To accentuate something means to give importance to it or make it more noticeable. It is used to emphasize certain aspects or features.

For instance, a fashion designer might say, “This dress is designed to accentuate your waist.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “I want to accentuate the positive aspects of our product.”
A photographer might use lighting techniques to accentuate the subject of a photo.

3. Stress

To stress something means to place emphasis on it or give it special attention. It is used to highlight the significance or importance of a particular point.

For example, a teacher might say, “I cannot stress enough the importance of studying for the exam.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “Let me stress that this decision will have long-term consequences.”
A coach might tell their team, “We need to stress the importance of teamwork.”

4. Emphasize

To emphasize something means to give it prominence or make it more noticeable. It is used to highlight the importance or significance of a specific aspect.

For instance, a speaker might say, “I want to emphasize that this issue affects us all.”
In a written document, a writer might use capital letters or exclamation marks to emphasize a point.
A parent might tell their child, “I cannot emphasize enough how proud I am of you.”

5. Underline

To underline something means to draw attention to it or make it stand out. It is often used to emphasize important information or key points.

For example, in a text message, someone might write, “I really need you to understand this, so let me underline it.”
In a book, a reader might underline a particularly meaningful passage.
A teacher might ask their students to underline the main ideas in a reading assignment.

6. Spotlight

To draw attention to or give importance to something. “Spotlight” is often used metaphorically to emphasize the significance or focus on a particular subject.

For example, in a news article, a headline might read, “New study spotlights the impact of climate change on coastal communities.”
A speaker might say, “Let’s spotlight the issue of income inequality in our upcoming conference.”
A writer might use the phrase, “The film effectively spotlights the struggles of marginalized communities.”

7. Magnify

To make something appear larger, stronger, or more important. “Magnify” is often used figuratively to emphasize the intensity or significance of an event, emotion, or situation.

For instance, a person might say, “Her words only served to magnify my anger.”
A news article might state, “The scandal magnified the public’s distrust in the government.”
A writer might use the phrase, “The author magnifies the character’s flaws to highlight their internal struggles.”

8. Amplify

To make something louder, stronger, or more intense. “Amplify” is often used metaphorically to emphasize the impact or significance of an idea, message, or event.

For example, a speaker might say, “We need to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.”
A social media post might read, “Let’s amplify this important cause by sharing it with our followers.”
A writer might use the phrase, “The author amplifies the tension in the story to create a sense of suspense.”

9. Intensify

To make something stronger, more extreme, or more intense. “Intensify” is often used to emphasize the increase in intensity or severity of a feeling, action, or situation.

For instance, a person might say, “The music intensified the emotions of the audience.”
A news headline might read, “Conflict in the region intensifies as tensions rise.”
A writer might use the phrase, “The storm intensified, unleashing torrential rain and strong winds.”

10. Reinforce

To make something stronger, more effective, or more solid. “Reinforce” is often used to emphasize the support, validation, or emphasis given to an idea, belief, or behavior.

For example, a teacher might say, “I want to reinforce the importance of good manners.”
A manager might state, “We need to reinforce the company’s core values through our actions.”
A writer might use the phrase, “The recurring theme of family reinforces the protagonist’s motivation throughout the novel.”

11. Drive home

This phrase is used to emphasize a point or make something more impactful.

For example, “Let me drive home the importance of this issue.”
In a persuasive speech, a speaker might say, “I want to drive home the fact that climate change is a real threat.”
A teacher might use this phrase to emphasize a lesson, saying, “I’m going to drive home the concept of quadratic equations with some real-life examples.”

12. Hammer home

This expression is used to stress or reinforce a point, often through repetition or forcefulness.

For instance, “The coach hammered home the importance of teamwork.”
In a debate, a debater might say, “I’m going to hammer home the fact that our opponent’s argument is based on faulty evidence.”
A parent might use this phrase to emphasize a rule to their child, saying, “I’m going to hammer home the importance of honesty in our family.”

13. Drive the point

This phrase means to make a point or argument more noticeable or understandable.

For example, “Let me drive the point home that hard work pays off.”
In a discussion, someone might say, “I’m trying to drive the point that we need to prioritize sustainability.”
A presenter might use this phrase to emphasize a key message, saying, “I want to drive the point that diversity leads to innovation.”

14. Hit home

This expression is used to describe something that strongly affects or resonates with someone.

For instance, “The documentary really hit home the realities of poverty.”
In a personal story, someone might say, “The loss of my loved one really hit home the importance of cherishing every moment.”
A teacher might use this phrase to describe the impact of a lesson, saying, “The novel we read really hit home the themes of identity and belonging.”

15. Make a point

This phrase means to express or emphasize a particular idea or opinion.

For example, “I want to make the point that education is a fundamental right.”
In a meeting, someone might say, “I just want to make the point that we need to consider the long-term effects.”
A speaker might use this phrase to emphasize a key argument, saying, “I’m going to make the point that technology has transformed our lives.”

16. Drive the message

This phrase means to emphasize or make sure that the intended message is understood and not overlooked.

For example, in a presentation, a speaker might say, “I want to drive the message home that teamwork is essential for success.”
In a marketing campaign, a company might use the slogan, “Our goal is to drive the message that our product is the best in the market.”
A teacher might instruct students, “When writing an essay, make sure to drive the message by using strong evidence and clear arguments.”

17. Put the emphasis on

This phrase means to focus on or give extra attention to a particular aspect or idea.

For instance, a coach might say, “Let’s put the emphasis on defense in today’s practice.”
In a conversation about healthy eating, someone might suggest, “We should put the emphasis on consuming more fruits and vegetables.”
A manager might advise their team, “When presenting to clients, put the emphasis on the unique features of our product.”

18. Drive the importance

This phrase means to highlight or emphasize the importance of something.

For example, a parent might say to their child, “I want to drive the importance of honesty in our family.”
In a workplace training session, a facilitator might state, “We need to drive the importance of time management for increased productivity.”
A teacher might explain to students, “Understanding the historical context is key, so let’s drive the importance of analyzing primary sources.”

19. Drive the significance

This phrase means to make sure that the significance or meaning of something is fully understood or appreciated.

For instance, in a speech, a speaker might say, “I want to drive the significance of voting and its impact on our democracy.”
In a literature class, a professor might discuss, “Let’s drive the significance of symbolism in this novel.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “When writing a cover letter, make sure to drive the significance of your relevant experiences.”

20. Drive the urgency

This phrase means to emphasize the importance of acting quickly or addressing something immediately.

For example, in a safety meeting, a supervisor might say, “We need to drive the urgency of following proper procedures to prevent accidents.”
In a fundraising campaign, an organization might state, “Our goal is to drive the urgency of donating to support those in need.”
A project manager might communicate to their team, “We must drive the urgency of meeting the project deadline to ensure success.”

21. Turn up

To turn up means to increase or intensify something, often in a social or party context. It can refer to turning up the volume of music, turning up the energy of a crowd, or turning up the fun at an event.

For example, “Let’s turn up the music and dance!”
At a party, someone might say, “We’re about to turn up and have a great time.”
When encouraging a friend to have a good time, you might say, “Come on, turn up and enjoy yourself!”

22. Boost

To boost means to elevate or enhance something, often to make it better or more successful. It can refer to boosting confidence, boosting performance, or boosting a signal or signal strength.

For instance, “I need a cup of coffee to boost my energy.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “We need to boost our team’s morale and work together.”
When talking about technology, someone might say, “I need a Wi-Fi booster to boost the signal in my house.”

23. Max out

To max out means to reach the maximum or highest level of something. It can refer to reaching the maximum capacity, intensity, or effort in a particular activity or situation.

For example, “I maxed out my credit card and now I have to pay it off.”
In a workout context, someone might say, “I pushed myself to the limit and maxed out on my deadlift.”
When discussing a video game, a player might say, “I finally maxed out my character’s level and unlocked all the abilities.”

24. Take it up a notch

To take it up a notch means to increase the intensity or level of something. It can refer to making something more exciting, challenging, or impressive.

For instance, “Let’s take this party up a notch and bring in a live band.”
In a cooking context, someone might say, “I’m going to take this recipe up a notch by adding some extra spices.”
When discussing a workout routine, a person might say, “I’m going to take my training up a notch and start incorporating more advanced exercises.”

25. Go all out

To go all out means to put in maximum effort or go to the extreme in a particular activity or endeavor. It can refer to giving everything you have, going above and beyond, or not holding back.

For example, “I’m going to go all out and give this performance my best.”
In a decorating context, someone might say, “I’m going to go all out and transform my house into a winter wonderland.”
When discussing a competition, a person might say, “I’m going to go all out and give it my all to win.”

26. Dial it up

This phrase is often used to encourage someone to increase the intensity or level of something, such as a performance or effort.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “Let’s dial it up in the second half and give it everything we’ve got.”
In a discussion about cooking, someone might suggest, “If you want to make the dish really flavorful, dial up the spices.”
A motivational speaker might say, “To achieve your goals, you need to dial up your determination and work ethic.”

27. Crank it to eleven

This phrase is a reference to the movie “This Is Spinal Tap,” where a guitar amplifier is shown with a volume knob that goes up to eleven instead of the usual ten. It is used to emphasize the idea of pushing something to its maximum or extreme level.

For instance, a musician might say, “When I perform live, I like to crank it to eleven and give the audience an unforgettable experience.”
In a discussion about productivity, someone might advise, “If you want to accomplish more, crank your focus and concentration to eleven.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “To see real results, you have to crank up the intensity of your workouts to eleven.”

28. Turn it up to eleven

Similar to “crank it to eleven,” this phrase is also a reference to the movie “This Is Spinal Tap.” It means to increase the intensity or level of something to its maximum.

For example, a DJ might say, “The crowd is loving the music. Let’s turn it up to eleven and take the energy to the next level.”
In a discussion about problem-solving, someone might suggest, “When facing a challenge, turn your creativity up to eleven and think outside the box.”
A chef might say, “To make this dish truly exceptional, turn up the flavors to eleven and add some unexpected ingredients.”

29. Take it to the next level

This phrase is often used to encourage someone to bring something to a higher level, whether it’s a skill, performance, or effort.

For instance, a coach might say to their team, “We’ve been working hard, but it’s time to take it to the next level and show what we’re truly capable of.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might advise, “If you want to achieve your goals, you have to take your efforts to the next level.”
A musician might say, “I’ve been practicing for hours every day to take my guitar playing to the next level.”

30. Go the extra mile

This phrase means to put in additional effort or go beyond what is expected in order to achieve a desired outcome or provide exceptional results.

For example, a boss might say to their employee, “I need someone who is willing to go the extra mile and take on additional responsibilities.”
In a discussion about customer service, someone might suggest, “If you want to stand out, go the extra mile for your customers and exceed their expectations.”
A student might say, “I want to get a good grade, so I’m going to go the extra mile and do extra research for my project.”

31. Give it everything you’ve got

This phrase encourages someone to give their all and put forth their maximum effort in a particular task or situation.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “In this game, I want you to give it everything you’ve got.”
A motivational speaker might say, “If you want to achieve your goals, you have to give it everything you’ve got.”
In a job interview, a candidate might say, “I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got if given the opportunity.”

32. Put the pedal to the metal

This phrase is used to encourage someone to go full speed ahead or to accelerate their efforts.

For instance, a driver might say, “I need to put the pedal to the metal to catch up to the lead car.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “We have a tight deadline, so let’s put the pedal to the metal and get it done.”
A friend might encourage another by saying, “If you want to succeed, you need to put the pedal to the metal and give it your all.”

33. Throw everything at it

This phrase suggests using all available resources and effort to tackle a problem or achieve a goal.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “This is our last chance, so let’s throw everything at it.”
In a business context, a manager might say, “We’re facing tough competition, but we’re going to throw everything at it and come out on top.”
A friend might advise another, “If you want to succeed, you need to throw everything at it and leave no stone unturned.”

34. Pull out all the stops

This phrase means to make every effort and use all available means to achieve a desired outcome.

For instance, a musician might say, “I’m going to pull out all the stops for this performance.”
In a fundraising campaign, a coordinator might say, “Let’s pull out all the stops and raise as much money as possible.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “It’s the championship game, so let’s pull out all the stops and give it our best shot.”

35. Leave no stone unturned

This phrase means to thoroughly examine every possibility or option in order to uncover or achieve something.

For example, a detective might say, “We will leave no stone unturned in our search for the truth.”
In a research project, a scientist might say, “Our goal is to leave no stone unturned and explore every avenue of investigation.”
A friend might advise another, “If you want to find a solution, you need to leave no stone unturned and consider every angle.”

36. Crank it up

This phrase is used to encourage someone to make something louder, stronger, or more intense. It can also be used figuratively to mean to increase the effort or energy put into something.

For example, at a party, someone might say, “Crank up the music!”
In a sports game, a coach might yell, “Crank it up, team! We need to score more points!”
When motivating a friend, you might say, “Crank up the intensity during your workout!”

37. Turn it up

This phrase is used to tell someone to make something louder or more intense. It is commonly used when referring to music or sound, but can also be used in other contexts.

For instance, at a concert, a fan might shout, “Turn it up!”
When watching a movie, someone might say, “Can you turn up the volume? I can’t hear.”
In a motivational speech, a speaker might say, “Turn up the passion and go after your dreams!”

38. Kick it up a notch

This phrase means to increase the intensity, speed, or difficulty of something. It is often used to encourage someone to push themselves harder or to take something to the next level.

For example, in a workout class, the instructor might say, “Let’s kick it up a notch and add some weights!”
When cooking, a recipe might suggest, “If you like it spicy, kick it up a notch with some extra chili peppers.”
In a competition, a coach might tell their team, “We need to kick it up a notch in the second half!”

39. Bring it on

This phrase is used to express enthusiasm or readiness to face a challenge or competition. It can also be used to taunt or challenge someone to do their best.

For instance, before a race, a runner might say, “Bring it on!”
In a friendly game, someone might say, “I’m ready to play. Bring it on!”
When facing a difficult task, a person might say, “I’m prepared for anything. Bring it on!”

40. Crank up the heat

This phrase is used to describe increasing the pressure or intensity of a situation or activity. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

For example, in a cooking competition, a judge might say, “The contestants need to crank up the heat if they want to impress us.”
In a sports game, a coach might say, “We’re down by 10 points. It’s time to crank up the heat and make a comeback.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “We have a deadline approaching. Let’s crank up the heat and get the project done!”

41. Turn up the heat

This phrase means to intensify a situation or make it more challenging. It can be used in various contexts.

For example, in a sports competition, a coach might say, “Let’s turn up the heat in the second half and go for the win!”
In a work environment, a manager might tell their team, “We need to turn up the heat and meet our sales targets.”
When discussing a debate or argument, someone might say, “He really turned up the heat with his strong counterarguments.”

42. Raise the stakes

This phrase means to make a situation more intense or challenging by increasing the potential gain or loss.

For instance, in a poker game, a player might say, “I’m going to raise the stakes and bet all my chips.”
In a business negotiation, someone might propose, “Let’s raise the stakes and offer a higher price to seal the deal.”
When discussing a competition, a sports commentator might say, “This final match is raising the stakes for both teams.”

43. Bring the heat

This phrase means to bring a high level of energy, effort, or intensity to a situation or performance.

For example, a musician might say before a concert, “I’m going to bring the heat and give the audience an unforgettable show.”
In a sports game, a player might shout, “Bring the heat!” to motivate their team to play aggressively.
When discussing a challenging task, someone might say, “I need to bring the heat and finish this project ahead of schedule.”

44. Amp it to 11

This phrase is a reference to the movie “This Is Spinal Tap” where a guitarist claims their amplifiers go up to 11 instead of the usual maximum of 10. It means to push something to its absolute limit or maximum level.

For instance, a DJ might say, “Let’s amp it to 11 and get the crowd dancing.”
In a workout session, a fitness instructor might encourage their class to “amp it to 11” for the final set.
When discussing a party, someone might say, “We need to amp up the music to 11 to create a great atmosphere.”

45. Take it up a level

This phrase means to raise the level of something, typically in terms of intensity, difficulty, or quality.

For example, in a video game, a player might say, “I need to take it up a level to defeat the boss.”
In a dance competition, a judge might comment, “She really took it up a level with her impressive choreography.”
When discussing a training program, someone might say, “I’m going to take it up a level and challenge myself with more advanced exercises.”

46. Step it up a gear

This phrase is used to encourage someone to increase their effort or intensity in order to achieve a desired outcome or goal.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “We need to step it up a gear if we want to win this game.”
In a work setting, a manager might tell their employees, “Let’s step it up a gear and finish this project ahead of schedule.”
A friend might say to another friend, “You’ve been slacking off, it’s time to step it up a gear and start studying for that exam.”

47. Crank it to the max

This phrase is used to describe increasing something to the highest possible level or intensity.

For instance, a person might say, “Let’s crank it to the max and party all night long!”
In a music context, someone might tell the DJ, “Crank it to the max and let’s get this party started.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “I’m going to crank it to the max and push myself to the limit during this workout.”

48. Turn it up to 11

This phrase is a reference to a scene in the movie “This Is Spinal Tap” where a character turns the volume on their amplifier past the normal maximum level, which is labeled as 10. “Turning it up to 11” has since become a slang phrase for increasing something to the maximum level.

For example, a person might say, “Let’s turn it up to 11 and have the best night ever!”
In a sports context, a coach might tell their team, “We need to turn it up to 11 and dominate the competition.”
A friend might say to another friend, “I’m feeling bored, let’s turn it up to 11 and go on an epic adventure!”

49. Dial it up to 11

This phrase is a variation of “turn it up to 11” and is used to describe increasing something to the maximum level.

For instance, a person might say, “Dial it up to 11 and let’s make this party unforgettable!”
In a work context, a manager might tell their team, “We need to dial it up to 11 and exceed our sales targets.”
A music lover might say, “I’m going to dial it up to 11 and rock out at this concert!”

50. Kick it into high gear

This phrase is used to describe increasing speed or effort in order to accomplish a task or goal more quickly or efficiently.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “It’s time to kick it into high gear and show them what we’re made of!”
In a work setting, a supervisor might tell their employees, “We have a tight deadline, so let’s kick it into high gear and get this project done.”
A friend might say to another friend, “We’re running late, let’s kick it into high gear and get to the party on time!”

51. Take it up several notches

This phrase is used to describe the act of intensifying or escalating a situation or activity.

For example, “If you want to win this competition, you’ll need to take your training up several notches.”
In a discussion about cooking, someone might say, “To make this dish really stand out, we need to take the flavors up several notches.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “We need to take our performance up several notches if we want to win this game.”

52. Push it to the limit

This phrase is used to encourage someone to go beyond what is considered normal or expected.

For instance, in a workout class, the instructor might say, “Don’t hold back, push it to the limit!”
In a conversation about personal goals, someone might say, “If you want to achieve greatness, you have to push yourself to the limit.”
A musician might describe their performance as, “I gave it my all and pushed myself to the limit on stage.”

53. Go above and beyond

This phrase is used to describe the act of surpassing what is required or expected, often by putting in extra effort or going the extra mile.

For example, a customer might leave a positive review for a restaurant, saying, “The staff went above and beyond to ensure we had a great dining experience.”
In a work setting, a manager might praise an employee by saying, “You consistently go above and beyond in your job.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “If you want to succeed, you need to go above and beyond in your studies.”