underscore an argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underscore an argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize or highlight a particular point or reasoning in a discussion or debate. Example: "The recent data on climate change underscores the argument that immediate action is necessary to mitigate its effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The department's rationale for holding to the standard weapon underscores an argument about safety among law-enforcement officials about the merits of the six-shot revolver versus the semiautomatic.

The New York Times

"If I had another child, what would our living circumstances be like?" Ms. Wang's reasoning underscores an argument voiced with growing insistency by demographers who want China to abandon its one-child restrictions: like the couple in Yicheng, they argue, most Chinese want only one child anyway.

The New York Times

The enthusiasm underscores a key argument for investing in classroom technology: student engagement.

The New York Times - Tech

But it might also have underscored a new argument: that this is a tradition that should be reclaimed by black studies and black history, something to show that African Americans were decent, hardworking and aspirational, preparing the way for their children to go to college and enter careers other than service.

The Guardian - Film

Mr. Rubio's argument, outlined in his letter, underscores an unlikely debate raging in conservative circles.

The New York Times

He called the hearing a "dog and pony show" and displayed a blown-up picture of a dog riding a pony, to underscore his argument that the hearing was just a chance for Democrats to score political points, without doing anything about high gas prices or a sensible energy policy.Mr.Mr

The New York Times

He called the hearing a "dog and pony show" and displayed a blown-up picture of a dog riding a pony, to underscore his argument that the hearing was just a chance for Democrats to score political points, without doing anything about high gas prices or a sensible energy policy.

The New York Times

The issues of basing and cost only underscore the argument that a new generation of U.S. missiles may not be the optimal policy choice, particularly in a time of constrained defense budgets.

Huffington Post

Mr. Hafetz's argument underscored a crucial question in the trial of Mr. Marshall: Where did Mrs. Astor, who died two years ago at 105, want her money to go after she died?

The New York Times

To underscore his argument, Mr. Letang quoted from four letters Ms. Grossberg wrote Mr. Peterson at the start of their freshman years in college nearly two years ago.

The New York Times

Mr. Bush is using the food donations to underscore his argument that he is not waging war on Islam, only on terrorism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "underscore an argument" when you want to clearly highlight the significance or validity of a particular point, often by presenting supporting evidence or examples.

Common error

Avoid using "underscore an argument" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "emphasize" or "highlight" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underscore an argument" functions as a verb phrase used to emphasize or highlight a particular point or line of reasoning. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment of its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "underscore an argument" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a point or line of reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, and examples show its prevalence in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While it's a valid phrase, it is advisable to use simpler alternatives like "emphasize" or "highlight" in informal settings. The phrase effectively strengthens the persuasiveness of a statement, making it a valuable tool for writers and speakers aiming to draw attention to key arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Emphasize an argument

Replaces "underscore" with "emphasize", focusing on the act of giving importance to the argument.

Highlight an argument

Uses "highlight" instead of "underscore", suggesting drawing attention to the argument.

Reinforce an argument

Substitutes "underscore" with "reinforce", indicating strengthening the argument.

Strengthen an argument

Focuses on making the argument more robust or persuasive.

Support an argument

Indicates providing evidence or reasons for the argument.

Accentuate an argument

Replaces "underscore" with "accentuate", suggesting a more pronounced emphasis.

Draw attention to an argument

Focuses on making the argument more noticeable or prominent.

Give weight to an argument

Emphasizes the importance or significance of the argument.

Call attention to an argument

Highlights the argument by specifically directing focus to it.

Confirm an argument

Suggests that the argument is being validated or verified.

FAQs

How can I use "underscore an argument" in a sentence?

You can use "underscore an argument" to emphasize a point, such as: "The data presented clearly "underscore an argument" for increased funding."

What are some alternatives to "underscore an argument"?

Alternatives include "emphasize an argument", "highlight an argument", or "reinforce an argument". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "underscore the argument" or "underscore an argument"?

Both "underscore the argument" and "underscore an argument" are grammatically correct. Use "the" when referring to a specific, previously mentioned argument. Use "an" when introducing a general argument.

What does it mean to "underscore an argument"?

To ""underscore an argument"" means to emphasize, highlight, or strengthen a particular point or line of reasoning, making it more prominent and persuasive.