Meaning & Definition of word "Overemphasize"

Overemphasize

/ˌoʊvərˈɛfəˌsaɪz/

1. To give excessive emphasis to something; to stress a point excessively.
- Example: The speaker tended to overemphasize the importance of the new policy, leading to confusion among the audience.
2. To exaggerate the significance of something.
- Example: In her critique, she argued that the author overemphasizes the role of fear in human motivation.
3. To place too much importance on a particular aspect, often at the expense of others.
- Example: Teachers should not overemphasize standardized test scores at the cost of fostering creativity in students.
4. To highlight something in a way that may distort its actual importance.
- Example: The media tends to overemphasize celebrity failures, diverting attention from more relevant news.

●Combination of the prefix 'over-' meaning excessively, and 'emphasize' meaning to give emphasis or stress.

overemphasize the negative:

To focus excessively on negative aspects, leading to a skewed perspective.

don't overemphasize:

A phrase advising someone not to stress or exaggerate a point unnecessarily.

overemphasized details:

Referring to aspects that have been given undue significance or attention.

emphasis:

Special importance or significance placed on something.

stress:

To give particular importance or priority to something.

highlight:

To make something stand out as important.

Meaning: Blowing it out of proportion

● Example Sentence: He's blowing this situation out of proportion, just like he always does.

Meaning: Making a mountain out of a molehill

● Example Sentence: Don't make a mountain out of a molehill; it's not that big of a deal.