highlight the absence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "highlight the absence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the lack of something or emphasizing what is missing in a particular context. Example: "In her analysis, she aimed to highlight the absence of reliable data in the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

However, size and age are just part of the campaign: the idea is also to highlight the absence of women from different ethnic backgrounds.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The natural reaction was to blame the receivers and highlight the absence of Wallace, but Roethlisberger has simply not been accurate so far.

The Guardian - Sport

Since Rivera came back, Acevedo has a 9.88 E.R.A. His problems highlight the absence of the setup man Steve Karsay, who is out for the year with a shoulder injury, and may force the Yankees to trade for a reliever.

The New York Times - Sports

Stigson, who was largely responsible for building a progressive business coalition in the wake of the 1991 Earth Summit, uses this point to highlight the absence of political leadership in America and other Western countries when confronting the numerous environmental, social and economic challenges of our age.

The Guardian

These examples highlight the absence of any consensus concerning the extent of GNP size increase by the biomolecular corona.

Cancer Nanotechnology

The underdetermination thesis is also used to highlight the absence of neutral starting points for our beliefs.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The unexpected presence of a woman highlights the absence of female interaction in these men's lives.

The Guardian

Sir Menzies Campbell broadly welcomed the reforms, but highlighted the absence of any commitment to look seriously at electoral reform.

The Guardian

It also highlights the absence of a strong counterforce in American politics.

The New York Times

But it has served an important function by highlighting the absence of any coherent American or European policy in the Balkans.

The New York Times

Yet only now is he psychologically coming to terms with its practical consequences as the failure of the diplomatic strategy highlights the absence of a viable alternative.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "highlight the absence", ensure the context clearly indicates what is missing and why it's significant. This adds impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "highlight the absence" without clearly specifying what is absent. Vague references can confuse readers and diminish the impact of your message. Always provide specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "highlight the absence" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to draw attention to something that is lacking or missing. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. This phrase is commonly used to emphasize a deficiency or omission.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "highlight the absence" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a lack or deficiency. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides real-world examples. The phrase appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts and carries a neutral tone suitable for diverse writing styles. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly specify what is absent to maximize its impact. Alternatives include phrases like "emphasize the lack" or "draw attention to the void".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emphasize the lack

Focuses on the 'lack' itself, making it the central point.

underscore the deficiency

More formal and emphasizes a shortcoming or inadequacy.

draw attention to the void

Uses 'void' to suggest a significant missing element.

call attention to the missing aspect

Directly points out what is missing.

point out the omission

Highlights that something has been left out.

show the scarcity

Emphasizes that the thing that is missing is rare or not available in sufficient quantity

note the inadequacy

More formal and emphasizes that it's not enough or not good enough.

stress the insufficiency

Emphasizes that the thing that is missing is essential.

reveal the deficit

More formal and highlights the lack of something that is required or expected.

bring to light the shortage

Emphasizes a limited supply or unavailability.

FAQs

How can I use "highlight the absence" in a sentence?

You can use "highlight the absence" to emphasize what is missing or lacking in a particular situation. For example: "The report aims to highlight the absence of sufficient funding for education." Alternatives include "emphasize the lack" or "underscore the deficiency".

What are some alternatives to "highlight the absence"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "draw attention to the void", "point out the omission", or "stress the insufficiency" instead of "highlight the absence".

Is it better to say "highlight the absence" or "emphasize the absence"?

Both "highlight the absence" and "emphasize the absence" are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to convey. "Highlight" suggests bringing something to the forefront, while "emphasize" suggests giving it more importance.

What is the difference between "highlight the absence" and "ignore the absence"?

"Highlight the absence" means to draw attention to something that is missing, while "ignore the absence" means to disregard or not acknowledge it. They are opposite in meaning.