cannot be emphasized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be emphasized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance or significance of a particular point or idea that is so crucial that it deserves special attention. Example: "The need for effective communication in a team cannot be emphasized enough, as it directly impacts collaboration and productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This point cannot be emphasized enough: Do not be fooled into thinking you must pair specific wines with specific dishes.

The New York Times - Food

The importance of proper graphene transfer process cannot be emphasized more because it is so closely related to the performance and stability of graphene devices.

Carbon

The importance of the detailed BIM for buildings like the free-form building in our case cannot be emphasized enough in case of automated and especially additive manufacturing.

Energy Procedia

The group said it "cannot be emphasized" how far BSkyB is from a "clear and transparent" compensation framework where shareholder and executive interests are aligned.

The New York Times

Moreover, it cannot be emphasized enough that splitting and reconfiguring existing pipelines are the means to an end, not the end in itself.

Harvard Business Review

Indeed, it cannot be emphasized enough that the protected areas of today should be used as the beginnings of a system for the future.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Although coastal storm surge flooding will gradually subside…it cannot be emphasized enough that another serious hazard associated with slow-moving Florence is and will be extremely heavy rainfall," the National Hurricane Center said.

The Washington Post

It cannot be emphasized enough that directors should be mindful of the potential that their emails and texts (including those stored on their personal devices) may be obtainable in litigation.

Harvard University

Since their introduction in 2002, these forms have made it infinitely easier for international students to join our applicant pool, and the impact of this innovation, in both practical and psychological terms, cannot be emphasized enough.

Princeton University

Keys play a vital role in the security of HLS Housing, so it cannot be emphasized enough how important it is for residents to take care of their keys.

Harvard University

It cannot be emphasized enough that Federico is not the Columbus Crew's third designated player because of his brother's influence; he is a special player who has worked tirelessly to earn his reputation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be emphasized" when you want to underscore a point that is fundamental and crucial to the understanding or success of a situation. It's particularly effective in formal writing and presentations.

Common error

Avoid using "cannot be emphasized" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in relaxed settings. Instead, opt for simpler alternatives like "it's really important" or "it's key".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be emphasized" functions as an emphatic expression, highlighting the critical importance of a statement. It is used to ensure that a particular point is not overlooked and is given due consideration. Ludwig provides many examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

29%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

9%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be emphasized" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to highlight the importance of a particular point. According to Ludwig, it is frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "cannot be overstated" and "is of utmost importance" exist, "cannot be emphasized" effectively underscores the critical nature of the information being conveyed. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing to maintain consistency and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot be overstated

Focuses on the degree to which something is exaggerated, implying it's impossible to exaggerate its importance.

is of utmost importance

Directly states the high level of importance, offering a more formal tone.

is critically important

Highlights the critical nature of something, suggesting it's essential for success or survival.

warrants special attention

Emphasizes the need to focus on something specific, suggesting it requires careful consideration.

demands serious consideration

Stresses the necessity of thinking carefully about something, implying its significance.

is paramount

Indicates that something is supreme or dominant, suggesting it outweighs other considerations.

must be stressed

Highlights the need to emphasize a point, directly urging the listener or reader to pay attention.

should be highlighted

Suggests drawing attention to something, implying its relevance and value.

bears repeating

Indicates that something is worth saying again, reinforcing its importance.

is worth noting

Draws attention to a particular detail, suggesting it's significant or insightful.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be emphasized" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be emphasized" to stress the importance of a particular point. For example, "The need for clear communication "cannot be emphasized" enough when working in a team."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be emphasized"?

You can use phrases such as "cannot be overstated", "is of utmost importance", or "is critically important" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "cannot be emphasized enough"?

Yes, saying "cannot be emphasized enough" is grammatically correct and commonly used to highlight the extreme importance of something. The examples found by Ludwig confirm its validity.

What is the difference between "cannot be emphasized" and "should be highlighted"?

"Cannot be emphasized" implies a stronger sense of necessity and importance, whereas "should be highlighted" simply suggests drawing attention to something without necessarily implying it's crucial.