Definition

Not given enough importance or attention; not highlighted sufficiently.

Example

The importance of mental health is often underemphasized in our society.

Conversation

I think some important points were underemphasized in the presentation yesterday.

Yeah, I noticed that too; it made some ideas seem less important than they really are.

Exactly! We should bring it up in the next meeting.

Good idea, it might help clarify things for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underemphasized → It is formed from "under-" (meaning below or insufficiently) and "emphasize" (from Greek "emphasis", meaning to express or signify). The suffix "-ed" indicates the past tense. The word means to have insufficiently expressed or highlighted something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'under' meaning below or insufficient, combined with 'emphasize' which means to express strongly. This helps you remember that 'underemphasized' refers to something that has not been expressed strongly enough.

Visually Confused Words