heighten the effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heighten the effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ways to increase the impact or intensity of something, such as a performance, an argument, or an emotional response. Example: "The use of dramatic lighting can significantly heighten the effect of the scene in the play."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Assurances that the suffering was real can heighten the effect.

The New Yorker

To heighten the effect, she'd looked for the most Biblical trees possible.

The New Yorker

A lab worker turns off the room lights to heighten the effect – but this isn't necessary.

MIT Technology Review

In Yemen, it is supposed to heighten the effect of chewing qat, the amphetamine-like leaf.

The New York Times - Food

The designer of the most interesting water feature used mirrors to heighten the effect of a small cascade.

The New York Times

And the overall effect is to heighten the effect and the presence of Frank Loesser's brash yet subtle and bluff yet intricate songs.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Some mutation combinations heighten the effects; others dampen each other.

Harvard University

Psychedelic lighting, vibrant music and radiant colors heighten the effects.

The New York Times

The dance music scene typically attracts people in their teens and early 20s, and many seek to heighten the effects of the hypnotic, pulsating music with MDMA, a club drug widely known as Ecstasy, or Molly.

Los Angeles Times

The dosage per serving is clearly stated, and the recipe headnotes often include nicely geeky bits, such as how mangoes are reputed to heighten the effects of cannabis because they're high (ha-ha) in myrcene molecules.

Los Angeles Times

Also, insulin resistance has been shown to have several adverse effects on the metabolism of the myocardium that heighten the effects of ischemia.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a specific emotional response, consider sensory details like lighting or sound to "heighten the effect". This will create a more immersive and impactful experience for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "heighten the effect" in predictable or overly dramatic contexts. Instead, strive for originality by exploring unique ways to achieve the desired impact. For instance, subtle understatement can be surprisingly effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heighten the effect" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the act of intensifying or amplifying a pre-existing outcome or impression. As stated by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

19%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "heighten the effect" is a grammatically sound and widely applicable expression used to convey the intensification or amplification of an existing outcome or impression. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It finds common usage in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When using this phrase, consider sensory details to maximize impact and avoid overuse in predictable situations. Alternatives such as "amplify the effect" or "intensify the effect" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

amplify the effect

Focuses on increasing the magnitude or intensity of the effect.

intensify the effect

Emphasizes making the effect stronger or more acute.

enhance the effect

Highlights improving the quality or desirability of the effect.

magnify the impact

Stresses increasing the significance or reach of the impact.

boost the effect

Suggests giving the effect a lift or surge.

strengthen the impact

Implies reinforcing or solidifying the impact.

exaggerate the effect

Suggests amplifying the effect beyond what is normal or expected, possibly creating a false impression.

underscore the effect

Focuses on drawing attention to the existing effect, making it more noticeable.

accentuate the effect

Highlights a particular aspect of the effect, making it stand out.

sharpen the effect

Emphasizes making the effect clearer or more distinct.

FAQs

How can I "heighten the effect" of a presentation?

You can "heighten the effect" of a presentation by using visuals, engaging storytelling, and a confident delivery. Consider incorporating interactive elements or unexpected insights to capture and maintain your audience's attention.

What are some alternatives to "heighten the effect"?

You can use alternatives like "amplify the effect", "intensify the effect", or "enhance the effect" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different nuances.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "heighten the effect"?

While generally acceptable, avoid using "heighten the effect" in contexts where subtlety is preferred. In such cases, consider using phrases like "subtly enhance" or "gently improve" to avoid sounding overly dramatic.

What's the difference between "heighten the effect" and "create an effect"?

"Heighten the effect" implies that an effect already exists and you are making it stronger or more noticeable. "Create an effect", on the other hand, means bringing an effect into existence where there was none before.