EMPHASIS, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, efficacia significandi, the vertue and efficacy of signifying ones mind: derived from 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 [emphaino] repraesento, to re∣present: Or
Page 239It is an earnest, vehement, or expresse signifi∣cation of ones mind.
Emphasis is a figure whereby a tacite vertue and efficacy of signification is given unto words; Or
It is a form of speech which signifieth that which it doth not expresse; the signification whereof is understood either by the manner of pronunciation, or by the nature of the words themselves.
English Examples.
When the signification is to be understood by the pronunciation.
Darest thou presume to praise him? (i. e.) Is ignorance fit to commend learning, or folly me•• to praise wisdom?
Wilt thou believe a Scot? whereby is signified, not simply a man born in Scotland, but any o∣ther dissembler, after the nature and disposition of that Nation.
Thy looks upon a sudden are become dismal, thy brow dull as Saturns issue, thy lips are hung with black, as if thy tongue were to pronounce some funeral.
He talked with such vehemency of passion, as though his heart would climbe up into his mouth to take his tongues office.
I could wish you were secretary of my thoughts, or that there were a crystal casement in my breast, through which you might espy the inward moti∣ons and palpitations of my heart, then you would certified of the sincerity of my heart in this af∣firmation.
Scriptural Examples of Emphasis.
Eccles. 10.20. Solomon there uses an excellent emphasis, where he gives us warning that we should not speak or think evil of the King, no not in our bed-chamber; for saith he; A bird of the air shall carry the voyce, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.
Job 17.14. I have said to corruption, Thou art my father: to the worm, Thou art my mo∣her and my sister.
Heb. 12.24. To the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things then that of Abel.
Prov. 30.8, 9. Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: lest I be full and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or lest I be poor, &c.
See Isa. 2.4.5. Micah 4.3. 1 King. 20.11. Mat. 12.35.
