as in to exaggerate
to treat (something) with more importance than is needed or proper
The teacher tends to overemphasize the value of tests. The importance of a healthy diet cannot be overemphasized.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of overemphasize
Moser says that American leaders have overemphasized college to the detriment of vocational training and that the U.S. system of apprenticeships pales in comparison with the ones in countries like Germany and Switzerland.
—
Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 13 May 2025
Hyper-independence happens when a person overemphasizes autonomy, often as a defense mechanism from past hurt, trauma or fear of vulnerability.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
Overall, China’s policymakers have overemphasized manufacturing as an economic driver, analysts say, and if the current tariffs stay in place, some predict China’s GDP growth this year could fall to 3%, missing the official target of around 5%.
—Ann Scott Tyson, Christian Science Monitor, 9 May 2025
Worse yet, overemphasizing happiness can create a performative culture where employees feel pressured to fake positive emotions.
—Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for overemphasize
Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 13 May 2025
Hyper-independence happens when a person overemphasizes autonomy, often as a defense mechanism from past hurt, trauma or fear of vulnerability.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
Overall, China’s policymakers have overemphasized manufacturing as an economic driver, analysts say, and if the current tariffs stay in place, some predict China’s GDP growth this year could fall to 3%, missing the official target of around 5%.
—Ann Scott Tyson, Christian Science Monitor, 9 May 2025
Worse yet, overemphasizing happiness can create a performative culture where employees feel pressured to fake positive emotions.
—Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for overemphasize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overemphasize
Verb
-
Critics say the deal undervalued the golf course and exaggerated the benefits.—
Sarah Lapidus,
AZCentral.com,
3 July 2025
-
Dissenting Justice Sonia Sotomayor did not exaggerate the consequences of the court’s 6-3 decision.—
Sun Sentinel Editorial Board,
Sun Sentinel,
3 July 2025
Verb
-
That said, many policymakers have emphasized taking a wait and see approach to monetary policy in the coming months as the economic impact of government policy plays out.—
Simon Moore,
Forbes.com,
14 July 2025
-
Lawmakers who support using STAR bonds emphasize that taxpayers aren’t on the hook if the projects don’t make enough money to pay back the debt.—
Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
14 July 2025
Verb
-
The reality is this: AI innovation is accelerating at a pace that’s hard to overstate.—
Yi Shi,
Forbes.com,
15 July 2025
-
Advanced Energy United, a trade group representing the advanced energy industry, suggested the report may overstate the risks of blackouts and undervalue resources like wind, solar and battery storage.—
Julia Shapero,
The Hill,
7 July 2025
Verb
-
Without ever overdoing, Catmull compels the audience to pay attention.—
Michael Barnes,
Austin American Statesman,
2 July 2025
-
Italians don't overdo it, but always include some detail that draws attention without going overboard.—
René Chávez Esparza,
Glamour,
21 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Overemphasize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overemphasize. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share