What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
underline
Example
Please underline the key points in the paragraph. [underline: verb]
Example
The teacher asked us to underline the main idea of the article. [underline: past tense]
highlight
Example
Can you highlight the main points in this report? [highlight: verb]
Example
I like to use different colors to highlight different types of information. [highlight: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Highlight is more commonly used than underline in everyday language. Highlight is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while underline is less common and refers to a more specific type of emphasis.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between underline and highlight?
Both underline and highlight are versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
