WordGarden.iounderline
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈʌndəˌlaɪn/not-comparableadjective
US
- /ˈəndərˌlaɪn/
Meanings
Verb
to draw a line beneath text to mark or emphasize it
to emphasize or make something especially clear
Noun
a line beneath text used for emphasis or formatting
Beyond the definition
Imagine you're reviewing an important document and want to draw the reader's eye to something crucial—that's when you underline it! To underline means to draw a line beneath words or phrases, usually to give them emphasis. It's like whispering "Pay attention here!" with your pen.
You might underline key terms in your notes while studying, or a teacher might ask you to underline the main idea in a passage. Sometimes, underlining isn't literal; you can underline a point by repeating it or explaining it more clearly, making sure everyone understands its importance. Think of it as giving something extra weight and attention.
To underline means to draw a line underneath text, typically to emphasize its importance or highlight key information. It's a visual cue that signals "This is significant!" Originally, the act of underlining was done literally with pen and paper—think of students marking up textbooks or editors reviewing manuscripts. "The teacher asked us to underline all the proper nouns in the paragraph."
However, "underline" has expanded beyond its physical origins. In modern usage, it can also mean to reinforce a point or idea through repetition or explanation. For example: "Her speech underlined the need for environmental protection," meaning she strongly emphasized that issue. Or, "The recent events underline how important it is to be prepared."
The context usually makes it clear whether you're talking about the physical act of drawing a line or the figurative act of emphasizing something. In digital documents, underlining is often done with a keyboard shortcut instead of a pen!
So, whether you're physically marking up text or figuratively highlighting an idea, to underline is all about bringing attention and importance to something specific—making sure it doesn't go unnoticed.
Examples
- 1
Classroom
The teacher asked us to underline the new words in blue.
- 2
Forms
Please underline the date on the form before you hand it in.
- 3
Textbook formatting
In the textbook, key terms are underlined to make them easier to find.
- 4
Safety report
Her report underlines the need for better safety training.
- Patternunderline the need for + noun/action
show that it is especially important
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Emotional evidence
His silence only underlined how upset he was.
- Patternunderline how + clause
make something even clearer
- 6
Research results
These results underline the fact that small changes can make a big difference.
- Patternunderline the fact that + clause
strongly emphasize that it is true
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- underlinenounverb
Forms
- underlinedpast tenseverbnoun
- underlinespluralnounverb
- underlining-ing formverbnoun