underscore the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underscore the idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize or highlight a particular concept or notion in your writing. Example: "The author uses various examples to underscore the idea that perseverance leads to success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

All of which was meant to underscore the idea that critics are often wrong about shows.

The New York Times

As for the maid, she's a prop designed to underscore the idea that this Seidel person is one despicable dude.

The New Yorker

That seems to underscore the idea that voters are simply looking for change, regardless of party labels.

The New York Times

In Tuscany, lawmakers with the Democratic Party handed out leaflets citing the Italian Constitution, to underscore the idea that everyone is equal before the law.

The New York Times

Are you the one?" To underscore the idea that the ads are intended to impart knowledge, the theme of the campaign is "Now!

The New York Times

Although much is made of the absence of a generation of men killed in the war, Mr. Ostermeier may intend to underscore the idea that true social power still resided with the surviving males.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

David Zinn's sliding, quick-change set underscores the idea of a life without anchors.

The New York Times

The puzzled sense of regret that infuses Brevoort's final musings underscores the idea.

The New York Times

This neatly underscores the idea of characters trapped in a set of motions that were choreographed before they were born.

The New York Times

Stephen P. Wood, chief market strategist for North America at Russell Investments, said the data underscored the idea that the recovery would be "a slog -- grinding and sluggish".

The New York Times

And Alden has Dede, François, and Junior double as the doo-wop trio in "Tahiti," underscoring the idea that the older material is filtered through Sam's consciousness.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience. While versatile, this phrase works best in academic, professional, or journalistic writing where a degree of formality is appreciated.

Common error

Avoid using "underscore the idea" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "point out" or "emphasize" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underscore the idea" functions as a rhetorical device to emphasize or highlight a specific concept or notion. As seen in Ludwig, it is used to subtly but firmly reinforce a key concept. It suggests a more nuanced approach than a direct statement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "underscore the idea" serves as a valuable tool for writers aiming to emphasize specific concepts with a touch of subtlety. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While it is not as frequently used as alternatives like "emphasize the point" or "highlight the concept", it finds a comfortable niche in news reporting and academic writing, where its neutral tone and professional register are particularly well-suited. By avoiding overuse in casual contexts and considering the subtle nuance it provides, writers can effectively harness its power to guide readers toward a deeper understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emphasize the point

Focuses on the act of giving prominence to a specific point.

highlight the concept

Emphasizes bringing a concept into greater focus or attention.

emphasize the fact that

To communicate something with clarity.

stress the importance

Highlights the significance or necessity of something.

underscore the significance

Shares a more formal tone to highlight the importance.

bring attention to the notion

Focuses on directing focus towards a specific idea.

call attention to the fact

Directs focus onto an established piece of information.

drive home the message

Focuses on effectively conveying a message to ensure it is understood.

hammer home the point

To emphasize something in an emphatic way.

reiterate the thought

Repeats a thought to ensure full understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "underscore the idea" in a sentence?

Use "underscore the idea" when you want to emphasize a particular point or concept. For example: "The author uses historical examples to "underscore the idea" that history repeats itself."

What are some alternatives to "underscore the idea"?

Alternatives include "emphasize the point", "highlight the concept", or "stress the importance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "underscore the idea" or "emphasize the idea"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "emphasize the idea" is more direct and commonly used. "Underscore the idea" is slightly more formal and implies a more subtle reinforcement.

What does it mean to "underscore the idea"?

To "underscore the idea" means to emphasize, highlight, or reinforce a particular concept or notion, making it more prominent or noticeable.