A defiant emphasis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A defiant emphasis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong or bold focus on a particular point or idea, often in a challenging or rebellious context. Example: "In her speech, she placed a defiant emphasis on the need for change, challenging the status quo."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

She puts her stamp on a jazzy arrangement of Ms. Mitchell's "Case of You," by giving the words "still be on my feet" a defiant emphasis.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

She has always had a defiant streak.

The New York Times

A defiant stand against poverty?

The Guardian

He had a defiant air.

The New York Times - Sports

Local Hamas leaders struck a defiant tone.

The New York Times

It almost had a defiant character".

The New York Times

A defiant Rosberg added: "He said that?

The Guardian - Sport

Will he maintain a defiant silence?

The Guardian

He consented to photographs, with a defiant shrug.

The New York Times

Or possibly Mr Hollande is simply a defiant optimist.

The Economist

"We'll discuss it anyway," says a defiant Duddridge.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "A defiant emphasis" when you want to highlight a point with a sense of resistance or challenge against an opposing view. It suggests a bold and unwavering focus.

Common error

Avoid using "a defiant emphasis" in situations that don't involve a clear conflict or opposition. The word 'defiant' carries a strong connotation, so ensure the context warrants this level of intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A defiant emphasis" functions as a noun phrase where 'defiant' modifies 'emphasis'. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used to describe a strong or bold focus, often in challenging contexts. The example provided by Ludwig illustrates this usage perfectly.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Arts

9%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "A defiant emphasis" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a strong focus with an element of resistance or challenge. As per Ludwig AI, it is perfectly valid in written English. While relatively rare, it finds its primary usage in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants the intensity of 'defiant'. Consider using alternatives such as "a strong emphasis" or "a resolute focus" if a more neutral tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forceful highlight

Replaces 'defiant' with 'forceful', indicating strength rather than resistance.

resolute stress

Substitutes 'defiant' with 'resolute', implying determination in highlighting.

bold accentuation

Uses 'bold' instead of 'defiant', focusing on the clear and unafraid nature of the emphasis.

determined focus

Replaces 'emphasis' with 'focus', and 'defiant' with 'determined', shifting the tone to resolve.

strong underscore

Employs 'underscore' to mean emphasis, with 'strong' replacing 'defiant'.

assertive highlighting

Changes 'defiant' to 'assertive', suggesting a confident and firm emphasis.

emphatic declaration

Uses 'declaration' instead of 'emphasis', making the phrase more about a statement than a focus.

spirited insistence

Replaces 'defiant' with 'spirited' and 'emphasis' with 'insistence', adding a flavor of liveliness.

marked importance

Shifts the phrase to highlight the significance, using 'marked' to indicate 'defiant'.

pointed attention

Replaces 'emphasis' with 'attention', making the phrase about directing focus in a specific way.

FAQs

How can I use "A defiant emphasis" in a sentence?

You can use "A defiant emphasis" to describe a strong focus on a particular point, often in a way that challenges existing norms or expectations. For example, "The artist placed "a defiant emphasis" on the themes of social injustice in her work".

What's a less intense alternative to "A defiant emphasis"?

If you want to convey a strong focus without the connotation of defiance, consider using phrases like "a strong emphasis", "a pronounced emphasis", or "a significant emphasis".

Is it always appropriate to use "A defiant emphasis" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, the phrase "A defiant emphasis" carries a strong emotional charge. Assess whether the level of intensity is suitable for your formal writing context. In some cases, a more neutral phrase might be more appropriate.

Can "A defiant emphasis" be used to describe a positive attribute?

Yes, "A defiant emphasis" can be used to describe a positive attribute when highlighting resilience or determination in the face of adversity. For example, "The team showed "a defiant emphasis" on teamwork despite facing numerous setbacks".