Let me underscore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Let me underscore" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize or highlight a particular point or idea in your communication. Example: "Let me underscore the importance of meeting deadlines in our project to ensure its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Let me underscore the obvious here: Reading fiction is important.

The New York Times

Let me underscore a key point here: Not only has Obama demonstrated an ability to widen the Democratic coalition, he has inspired a new generation of voters who -- if their cause is denied -- will be so crushed, so betrayed, so embittered, they will drop the party like a scalding rock and you will lose them for decades.

Huffington Post

Although he said the matter was not resolved, he added, "Let me underscore, we are making a lot of progress".

The New York Times

Most of these countries will lack the economic institutions or the resources to effectively integrate these youth into their societies.... Let me underscore what the president has affirmed.

The New York Times

And let me underscore -- the United States keeps our commitments".

Los Angeles Times

Before anyone gets too irrational, let me underscore that no one, not even the most extreme supporter, is even suggesting that anything of any magnitude be initiated today.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Secretary of Defense James Schlesinger said that under certain conditions the U.S. might be the first to use nuclear weapons, and that "first use could conceivably--let me underscore conceivably--involve what we define as strategic forces and possibly, possibly...involve selective strikes at the Soviet Union.... We do not necessarily exclude that, but it is indeed a very, very low probability".

The New Yorker

The Republican leader, Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, highlighted the point that Democrats had come up embarrassingly short, saying, "Let me just underscore what the majority leader has indicated: the votes would not be there tonight".

The New York Times

Banging his hand on the podium for emphasis, he added: "Let me just underscore this -- those words, whether they were intended or not, whether they were misspoken or not -- haven't been retracted, and they constitute a smear, and I don't appreciate it".

The New York Times

Just to underscore that point, let me draw your attention to another example in the text, which is Example 9.2.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

To underscore this point, let me compare, of all things, Bernstein's opera "A Quiet Place," which had a revelatory production at the City Opera last fall, and the audacious hit musical "The Book of Mormon," with book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Let me underscore" in formal writing, follow it with a concise and impactful statement to maximize its effect.

Common error

Avoid using "Let me underscore" too frequently, as it can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Opt for varied emphasis techniques.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Let me underscore" primarily functions as an emphatic marker. It signals to the reader or listener that the speaker is about to highlight or emphasize a crucial point. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous examples where the phrase precedes an important statement or clarification.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

43%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Let me underscore" is a phrase used to emphasize a critical point, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, media, and academic contexts, its function is to highlight important information. While grammatically correct and effective for adding emphasis, overuse should be avoided. Consider related phrases such as "let me emphasize" or "I want to stress" for variety. This phrase conveys formality and is more suitable for professional or neutral settings, not informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let me emphasize

Changes the verb to "emphasize", which is a direct synonym for "underscore".

Let me highlight

Replaces "underscore" with "highlight", offering a slightly less formal tone.

I want to stress

Uses "stress" to convey the importance of the point, shifting the focus to the speaker's intention.

It's important to note

Introduces the point as significant information, changing the sentence structure.

I must point out

Highlights a key observation, often used to draw attention to something specific.

Let's not forget

Reminds the audience of a crucial element, serving as an emphatic reminder.

I'd like to bring attention to

Formally directs focus onto a particular aspect, useful in professional settings.

This is worth mentioning

Signals the relevance or importance of the upcoming information, changing agency.

Bear in mind that

Advises the listener to remember something critical, presenting it as a reminder.

Keep in mind

Similar to 'bear in mind' but slightly less formal.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "Let me underscore" in a sentence?

Use "Let me underscore" to introduce a point you want to particularly emphasize. For example, "Let me underscore the importance of clear communication in this project."

What are some alternatives to "Let me underscore"?

Alternatives include "let me emphasize", "let me highlight", or "I want to stress", depending on the level of formality and context.

Is "Let me underscore" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "Let me underscore" is suitable for formal writing when you need to emphasize a specific point clearly and directly. However, ensure your tone remains professional.

What's the difference between "Let me underscore" and "Let me mention"?

"Let me underscore" is used to emphasize a point that's already been mentioned or is of particular importance. In contrast, "Let me mention" simply introduces a new piece of information without necessarily emphasizing it.