are underscored

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are underscored" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is emphasized or highlighted, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The key points of the presentation are underscored to ensure that the audience understands their importance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His words are underscored by the bass of Yoli Baum.

The New York Times

The languorous sensuality of Mr. Niemeyer's designs are underscored in early sketches for Brasília.

The New York Times

Still, the struggles of neighborhood businesses are underscored by persistently high retail vacancy rates.

The New York Times

Here, as Rick Wright's solo piano demo highlights, the crescendos are underscored by exquisitely mournful chords.

The Guardian - Music

Trump's shifting and unpredictable views are underscored by his stance on global warming.

The Guardian

Several times the musical and psychological action of Wagner's epic are underscored by unexpected action in the video.

The New York Times - Arts

These moments are underscored from the pit, where Antonio Pappano and his orchestra are on top form.

Independent

Moments of high intensity are underscored by music in an aggressive, Shostakovich-like vein, with screaming woodwinds and angry brass.

The New York Times - Arts

Those questions are underscored by the arrival of "Half Broke Horses," Ms. Walls's second book about her family.

The New York Times - Books

These particular Muslim predicaments are underscored by a problem endemic in British political culture - a weak tradition of citizenship.

The Guardian

In case we don't know when something important is happening, swaths of speech are underscored by emotional bursts of music.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are underscored" when you want to emphasize or highlight a particular aspect or point within your writing. It provides a slightly more formal tone than simply saying something is "important".

Common error

Avoid using "are underscored" in very casual or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in contexts where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. Consider using simpler alternatives like "are highlighted" or "are emphasized" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are underscored" functions as a passive verb phrase, typically used to indicate that certain aspects or points are being given emphasis or prominence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is derived from the verb "underscore", meaning to underline or emphasize.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Books

6%

Wiki

5%

Vice

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are underscored" is a passive verb phrase used to emphasize or highlight specific points. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in English. It is frequently used in news and media, science, and arts contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. While the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, writers should be mindful of its slightly formal tone and avoid overuse in casual writing. Consider alternatives like "are emphasized" or "are highlighted" for informal contexts. Using "are underscored" effectively ensures that key details are prominently featured in your writing, enhancing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are emphasized

Focuses on giving prominence or importance, similar to underscoring.

are highlighted

Suggests making something stand out visually or figuratively.

are stressed

Implies placing particular emphasis or importance on something.

are accentuated

Indicates making something more noticeable or prominent.

are brought to the fore

Highlights the act of bringing something into prominence or attention.

are given prominence

Focuses on the act of making something important or conspicuous.

are foregrounded

Implies bringing something to the forefront or into greater focus.

are brought into focus

Similar to foregrounding but emphasizes clarity of attention.

are made much of

Indicates that something is given a lot of attention or importance.

are played up

Suggests exaggerating or emphasizing something, sometimes for effect.

FAQs

How can I use "are underscored" in a sentence?

Use "are underscored" to emphasize or highlight something within a text. For example, "The importance of education and mentorship "are underscored" throughout the program".

What are some alternatives to using "are underscored"?

You can use alternatives such as "are emphasized", "are highlighted", or "are stressed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something is "underscored"?

When something is "underscored", it means it is being emphasized or highlighted, often to draw attention to its importance or significance. It's similar to underlining text to make it stand out.

Is it better to use "are emphasized" or "are underscored"?

The choice between "are emphasized" and "are underscored" depends on the context and desired tone. "Are underscored" may sound slightly more formal. You can consider what the intent of what "are accentuated" to make a final decission.