as in exaggerating
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 overemphasizing
Still, experts warn that there is such a thing as overemphasizing the data and getting bogged down by less-than-optimal scores.
—
Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 1 Oct. 2025
Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 1 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overemphasizing
Verb
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The administration has repeatedly downplayed the benefits of immunization, while exaggerating the importance of nutritional supplementation for combatting measles.—
Katherine J. Wu,
The Atlantic,
27 Jan. 2026
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Allegations that are now spreading online could be misinterpreting records or exaggerating minor issues — or could be exposing actual fraudulent activity.—
Jude Joffe-Block,
NPR,
7 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Photographer Alina Vlady echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that a phone-free ceremony protects the couple’s experience.—
Nikita Khanna,
Vogue,
5 Feb. 2026
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Trump in his remarks boasted of returning religion back to the center of American politics and culture, emphasizing efforts to support prayer in school, policies targeting transgender people and the creation of a White House faith office, among other actions.—
Joey Garrison,
USA Today,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Some scientists, though, warn that overstating the dangers of sport could put children off it, and that participation’s health benefits outweigh the risks.—
semafor.com,
semafor.com,
6 Feb. 2026
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Win-win might be overstating the outcome.—
Steve Henson,
Los Angeles Times,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
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This week’s roundup breaks down what to know about vitamin D dosing, simple ways to support heart health, and better sleep without overdoing it.—
Abby Norman,
Verywell Health,
9 Feb. 2026
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Rooms are furnished comfortably in the expected Southwestern decor, but avoid overdoing it thanks to restrained, contemporary hands.—
Asonta Benetti,
Condé Nast Traveler,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Roy has countered by stressing his conservative record and independence, saying the job is about enforcing the law and defending Texas – not personal fealty.—
Philip Jankowski,
Dallas Morning News,
7 Feb. 2026
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Savannah Guthrie opened the family’s plea by thanking supporters for their prayers before describing her mother as the heart of their family and making a direct appeal for contact, stressing Nancy Guthrie’s fragile health and urgent need for medication.—
Adam Sabes , Michael Ruiz , Greg Wehner,
FOXNews.com,
5 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Overemphasizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overemphasizing. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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