Cool MateHighlight
UK /["/ˈhaɪlaɪt/","/ˈhaɪlaɪts/","/ˈhaɪlaɪtɪd/","/ˈhaɪlaɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈhaɪlaɪt/","/ˈhaɪlaɪts/","/ˈhaɪlaɪtɪd/","/ˈhaɪlaɪtɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to emphasize something, especially so that people give it more attention
In simple words: To make something stand out or more important.
Examples
- The teacher asked us to highlight the important points in the text.
- She used a yellow marker to highlight her favorite quotes.
- I want to highlight the amazing work that the volunteers did.
- The highlight of the evening was the music performance.
- Traveling to Paris was the highlight of my summer vacation.
Usage notes
Used in contexts like presentations and studies. Generally avoids overly casual settings. In formal writing, use sparingly to maintain tone.
Grammar pattern
highlight + object
Memory hint
Think of a yellow marker that makes important text 'shine' or stand out.
Collocations
- clearly
- dramatically
- graphically
- serve to
Synonyms
- emphasize
- underline
- stress
- accentuate
- point out
Antonyms
- diminish
- ignore
- downplay
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'understate' — often used in opposite contexts.
- Misused as a noun — some learners may incorrectly use it as 'the highlight of my life'.
- Saying 'highlighting of' instead of 'highlighting'.