Certain things should be pointed out vs Emphasize

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Certain things should be pointed out

Top 3,000 (common)

Emphasize

Top 2,000 (common)B2verb
Most common: Emphasize
 Certain things should be pointed outEmphasize
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ˈsɜːtən θɪŋz ʃəd bi ˈpɔɪntɪd aʊt//🇺🇸 //ˈsɜrtən θɪŋz ʃəd bi ˈpɔɪntɪd aʊt//🇬🇧 /["/ˈemfəsaɪz/","/ˈemfəsaɪzɪz/","/ˈemfəsaɪzd/","/ˈemfəsaɪzɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈemfəsaɪz/","/ˈemfəsaɪzɪz/","/ˈemfəsaɪzd/","/ˈemfəsaɪzɪŋ/"]/
MeaningSome things need to be mentioned.To make something more important or noticeable.
ExampleThe manager said that certain things should be pointed out during the meeting.I want to emphasize the importance of studying regularly.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 3,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR level-B2
Part of speechverb
Collocationspoint out importance, point out mistakes, point out details, point out discrepanciesclearly, heavily, strongly, must, should, be important to
Antonyms-downplay, ignore, minimize
Common mistakesConfusing with 'pointing out' as a physical action., Using it inappropriately in casual contexts where other phrases may be simpler.Confused with 'emphasis' – remember 'emphasize' is a verb, while 'emphasis' is a noun., Using 'emphasize' when a simpler word like 'stress' fits better., Omitting the object, e.g., saying 'I will emphasize' without specifying what.
Usage notesUse this phrase to highlight important information. It's appropriate in formal and informal contexts.Use 'emphasize' when you want to highlight something important. It's suitable for both spoken and written English, but avoid overusing it in casual conversation.

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Certain things should be pointed out

Frequently asked questions: Certain things should be pointed out vs Emphasize

What's the difference between Certain things should be pointed out and Emphasize?

Certain things should be pointed out: Some things need to be mentioned. Emphasize: To make something more important or noticeable.

Which is more common: Certain things should be pointed out and Emphasize?

Emphasize is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

Certain things should be pointed out: The manager said that certain things should be pointed out during the meeting. Emphasize: I want to emphasize the importance of studying regularly.

Can I use Certain things should be pointed out and Emphasize interchangeably?

Not always. Certain things should be pointed out and Emphasize are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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