de-emphasized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "de-emphasized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of reducing the importance or prominence of something. Example: "In the revised report, the author de-emphasized the less critical findings to focus on the main conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It de-emphasized ethnicity.

The New York Times

The record will be de-emphasized.

The New York Times

Some other areas would be de-emphasized.

The New York Times - Tech

Why has the SAT been de-emphasized recently?

The New York Times

They should not have de-emphasized the military portion.

The New York Times

In the process, they de-emphasized such basic computational skills as memorization of multiplication tables.

The New York Times

City College and New York University de-emphasized the sport and left Division I basketball.

The New York Times

Worse, throughout the various federal documents examining traffic fatalities, the role of speeding is de-emphasized.

The New York Times

Although marketers once praised the accountability of Internet ad delivery, they have subsequently de-emphasized it.

The New York Times

And though still in operation, that program, called HomeSaver Advance, is now being de-emphasized.

The New York Times

As large firms have de-emphasized their trusts and estates practices, boutiques have sprouted up.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "de-emphasized", ensure the context clearly indicates what is now considered less important and why. This provides clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "de-emphasized" when the intention is to completely remove something. "De-emphasized" implies a reduction in importance, not elimination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "de-emphasized" functions as a verb, typically in the past tense, to describe the act of reducing the prominence or importance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is usable and correct in written English. Many examples from the provided data showcase its use in describing strategic shifts or changes in focus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "de-emphasized" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb indicating a reduction in importance or focus. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. While alternatives like "downplayed" or "minimized" exist, "de-emphasized" provides a clear and professional way to express a shift in priority. When using "de-emphasized", ensure the context clarifies what is now less important and avoid using it when complete removal is intended. Understanding these nuances will improve clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

downplayed

Focuses on minimizing the apparent significance of something.

minimized

Highlights the reduction to the smallest possible degree.

reduced in importance

Directly states the lowering of significance.

lessened the emphasis on

Emphasizes a shift in focus away from something.

played down

Similar to "downplayed", but can also imply a deliberate attempt to make something seem less important.

de-prioritized

Specifically refers to a lowering in order of importance.

softened

Implies a gentler reduction in intensity or focus.

understated

Suggests a deliberate lack of emphasis to create a subtle effect.

brushed aside

Suggests that something was dismissed and not given due importance.

given less prominence

Focuses on the reduction of visibility or attention.

FAQs

How can I use "de-emphasized" in a sentence?

You can use "de-emphasized" to indicate that something has been given less importance or focus. For example, "The company "de-emphasized" marketing in favor of product development."

What's the difference between "de-emphasized" and "downplayed"?

"De-emphasized" generally means to reduce the importance or prominence of something, while "downplayed" often suggests an attempt to minimize the apparent significance of something, sometimes deceptively.

What are some alternatives to "de-emphasized"?

Alternatives to "de-emphasized" include "minimized", "reduced in importance", or "lessened the emphasis on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "de-emphasized" formal or informal language?

"De-emphasized" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal settings, simpler terms like "downplayed" might be preferred.