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 your essay. [underline: verb]
Example
The teacher underlined the mistakes in red pen. [underlined: past tense]
underscore
Example
The report underscores the importance of teamwork. [underscores: present tense]
Example
The speaker underscored the need for urgent action. [underscored: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Underline is more common than underscore in everyday language, especially in informal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between underline and underscore?
Underscore is generally considered more formal than underline, and it is often used in academic or professional writing to emphasize important points or ideas.
