These 2 printing methods are linked closely to foil blocking. The image to the left clearly shows the difference between the 2 methods.

Embossing is the raising of text or image from the paper or board. Embossing can be used in conjunction with foiling, especially on letterheads. It is also suited to invitations.

Debossing is the opposite process. This refers to the artwork die being pressed into the surface of the paper, board etc. This works particularly well on  the covers of diaries.