What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
punctuating
Example
She spent hours punctuating her essay to ensure it was clear and easy to read. [punctuating: verb]
Example
The punctuation in this sentence is incorrect, making it difficult to understand. [punctuation: noun]
emphasizing
Example
She emphasized the importance of punctuating correctly in order to convey her message clearly. [emphasized: verb]
Example
The author used italics to emphasize the key points in the text. [emphasizing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Punctuating is more commonly used than emphasizing in everyday language since it is essential for clear communication in writing. Emphasizing is more common in academic or professional contexts where precision and clarity are crucial.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between punctuating and emphasizing?
Punctuating is a formal aspect of writing that is necessary for clear communication, while emphasizing can be used in both formal and informal contexts to add emphasis or convey tone.