magnify (ˈmæɡnɪˌfaɪ
)
Definitions
verb
- to increase, cause to increase, or be increased in apparent size, as through the action of a lens, microscope, etc
- to exaggerate or become exaggerated in importance ⇒
don't magnify your troubles
- (tr) rare to increase in actual size
- (tr) archaic to glorify
Alternative Forms
ˈmagniˌfiable adjectiveWord Origin
C14: via Old French from Latin magnificāre to praise; see magnificSynonyms
View thesaurus entry= make worse
exaggerate,
intensify,
worsen,
heighten,
deepen,
exacerbate,
aggravate,
increase,
inflame,
fan the flames of
=
exaggerate,
overdo,
overstate,
build up,
enhance,
blow up,
inflate,
overestimate,
dramatize,
overrate,
overplay,
overemphasize,
blow up out of all proportion
aggrandize,
make a production (out) of make a federal case of
Usage examples
To snatch every last gleam of light out of the air and magnify it; to be its own exquisite advertisement.
, COLDHEART CANYON (2001)The Just-In-Time inventory system also serves to magnify the failings of suppliers.
Business Today (1996)Their words in the press magnify their leader, not the democratic process.
Toronto Sun (2003)Global economic revival may magnify the effects of the steps ICI is taking to put its house in order.
Times, Sunday Times (2002)Those who believe in continuity are also free to praise and magnify her achievements, as they deserve to be praised.
, LEND ME YOUR EARS (2003)