What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overemphasize
Example
The speaker tends to overemphasize the importance of statistics in his argument. [overemphasize: verb]
Example
I think you're overemphasizing the role of luck in your success. [overemphasizing: gerund or present participle]
exaggerate
Example
He always exaggerates his accomplishments to impress others. [exaggerates: verb]
Example
She exaggerated the size of the fish she caught to make the story more interesting. [exaggerated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exaggerate is more commonly used in everyday language than overemphasize. Overemphasize is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overemphasize and exaggerate?
Overemphasize is more formal than exaggerate, which has a more casual tone and is more commonly used in informal contexts.
