To underscore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To underscore" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize or highlight a particular point or idea. Example: "The recent study aims to underscore the importance of mental health in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

To underscore that, a rider is seen doing a wheelie.

The New York Times

To underscore the connection, Helen is an expert on James.

The New York Times - Books

To underscore the shared commitment to this mission, Mr. Obama's European partners need to do more.

The New York Times

To underscore, without having to spell it out, his marital virility?

Independent

To underscore that campaign, every competitor will plant a seed during the parade.

The Guardian - Sport

That's really important to underscore.

The New York Times

Constantine is right to underscore it.

The New Yorker

Updike sought to underscore his arrogance.

The New Yorker

"Randy, permit to underscore Carl's letter.

The New York Times

Then came the iPhone in 2007, to underscore its revival.

The Guardian - Business

(The intermittent score tends to underscore the obvious).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to underscore" when you want to subtly emphasize a point that is already present, rather than introducing a completely new idea. It works best when reinforcing existing information.

Common error

Avoid using "to underscore" in very casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in settings where simpler language would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to underscore" functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It typically introduces a clause that provides additional emphasis or support for a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, highlighting its role in emphasizing points.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to underscore" is a grammatically sound phrase that serves to emphasize or highlight a point, primarily within news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While it's a valid and useful construction, consider using it judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in casual settings. Alternatives like "to emphasize" or "to highlight" can provide a similar effect with slightly different nuances. Remember, the best use of "to underscore" is when you want to subtly reinforce an existing point, rather than introducing something entirely new.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to emphasize

Focuses on giving special importance or prominence to something.

to highlight

Draws attention to something, making it stand out.

to stress

Indicates a strong emphasis or insistence on something.

to accentuate

Emphasizes by adding something extra or enhancing existing qualities.

to bring attention to

Focuses on making something noticeable or prominent.

to call attention to

Similar to 'bring attention to' but with a more deliberate intent.

to foreground

Places something in the most prominent position or role.

to spotlight

Highlights something as if with a spotlight, making it very visible.

to give prominence to

Highlights the importance or significance of something.

to bring to the forefront

Moves something into a leading or prominent position.

FAQs

How can I use "to underscore" in a sentence?

Use "to underscore" to emphasize a point that you are already making. For example, "The company's recent success serves to underscore the effectiveness of its marketing strategy."

What phrases are similar to "to underscore"?

Alternatives to "to underscore" include "to emphasize", "to highlight", or "to stress", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "to underscore" and "to emphasize"?

"To underscore" and "to emphasize" are similar, but "to underscore" often implies a more subtle reinforcement of an existing point, while "to emphasize" can be used to give more weight to something in general.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "to underscore"?

"To underscore" is suitable for formal writing, presentations, and situations where you want to subtly reinforce a message without being overly assertive. It is less common in very casual or informal settings.