as in exaggerates
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.
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Recent Examples of overemphasizes
Finally, advocates can respond to the argument that merit overemphasizes achievements and undervalues people.
—
Kenji Yoshino, Mercury News, 24 Jan. 2026
Kenji Yoshino, Mercury News, 24 Jan. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overemphasizes
Verb
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The same prime minister who exaggerates his power is also fine with being portrayed as the patsy of more influential actors.—
Aluf Benn,
Foreign Affairs,
10 Nov. 2025
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Tainy’s Prometheus — is portrayed by Feid, dressed in an oversized leather coat and lit in a manner that exaggerates his grills in an eerie way.—
Juan J. Arroyo,
Rolling Stone,
23 Oct. 2025
Verb
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The report emphasizes that machines are designed to minimize the use of water and to reduce energy consumption without compromising the quality of the final product.—
Angela Velasquez,
Sourcing Journal,
11 Feb. 2026
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Petrelli gives a nuanced performance that emphasizes the meaning that Thea finds in researching and writing alongside Lövborg, even if the academic and publishing worlds have no place for her.—
Emily McClanathan,
Chicago Tribune,
11 Feb. 2026
Verb
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That production likely overstates the free-swinging Lugo’s upside, but the 21-year-old has more raw power than his slight frame would suggest, along with above-average speed and experience playing six different positions in the minors.—
Aaron Gleeman,
New York Times,
14 Jan. 2026
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The finale overstates its hand but still packs an emotional punch.—
Randy Myers,
Mercury News,
26 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Overemphasizes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overemphasizes. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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