Featured: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
Definition and Part of Speech
The term featured functions primarily as a past participle or adjective. As a past participle, it derives from the verb “to feature,” indicating something that has been highlighted or included in a particular context. As an adjective, it describes something that stands out or is prominently presented.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highlighted | Suggests bringing attention to particular details, often visual or thematic. | “The artist’s work was highlighted in the museum’s annual showcase.” | Formal/Artistic |
| Prominent | Emphasizes standing out due to importance or visibility. | “The prominent speaker captivated the audience with his insights.” | General/Formal |
| Showcased | Indicates something displayed for attention, often in a physical or virtual space. | “Her innovative design was showcased at the fashion expo.” | Business/Creative |
| Headlined | Typically used for news and entertainment to denote what is featured in the main display or list. | “The documentary was headlined as part of the film festival lineup.” | Media/Formal |
| Spotlighted | Implies being placed under a literal or figurative spotlight, drawing focused attention. | “The young singer was spotlighted during the concert’s opening act.” | Entertainment/Informal |
Usage Notes
- Highlighted is often used in contexts where specific features are brought into focus, particularly in written and artistic settings.
- Prominent suits formal writing when emphasizing the importance or visibility of a subject among peers.
- Showcased works well in business and creative industries to describe items or ideas displayed for public viewing or consideration.
- Headlined is most relevant in media contexts, such as journalism or event listings, where primary focus points are determined.
- Spotlighted captures attention effectively in entertainment settings, highlighting individuals or acts.
Common Pitfalls
A typical confusion arises between “featured” and its synonyms due to their overlapping meanings. The choice often depends on context:
- Using “highlighted” when referring to a news article could be incorrect if the article was only marginally mentioned; here, “mentioned” might fit better.
- “Prominent” may imply greater significance than intended, especially in casual contexts where “featured” or “showcased” would suffice.
Final Recap
The word featured and its synonyms like “highlighted,” “prominent,” “showcased,” “headlined,” and “spotlighted” provide various shades of emphasis on presentation and importance. Each synonym carries specific nuances suited to different contexts, from formal articles to creative displays.
Encouraging learners to practice these words in writing or conversation can enhance their expressive range and precision. Experiment with crafting sentences or engaging discussions where these synonyms are applied to understand their subtle distinctions fully.