A2verb1K

Focus

UK /["/ˈfəʊkəs/","/ˈfəʊkəsɪz/","/ˈfəʊkəst/","/ˈfəʊkəsɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈfəʊkəs/","/ˈfəʊkəsɪz/","/ˈfəʊkəst/","/ˈfəʊkəsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to give attention, effort, etc. to one particular subject, situation or person rather than another

In simple words: The center of attention or interest.

Examples

  • I need to focus on my homework to finish it before dinner.
  • Please focus your attention on the speaker during the presentation.
  • He could not focus because of the loud noise outside.
  • She needs to focus her energy on improving her skills.
  • The focus of the meeting was to discuss the new project.
  • The camera will not take a clear picture if you do not focus properly.
  • In art, the focus can greatly affect how the viewer perceives the work.
  • The focus of the television show is on environmental issues.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal writing, it may refer to a study or topic. In casual conversations, it can refer to personal attention.

Grammar pattern

focus + on + object

Memory hint

Think of a camera 'focusing' on a subject to make it clear and sharp.

Collocations

  • especially
  • heavily
  • largely
  • need to
  • try to
  • decide to
  • on
  • upon
  • highly focused
  • tightly focused
  • narrowly focused
  • hard
  • intently
  • automatically
  • try to
  • on
  • upon

Synonyms

  • concentration
  • attention
  • emphasis
  • target
  • spotlight

Antonyms

  • distraction
  • scatter
  • indifference

Common mistakes

  • 'Focus' is often confused with 'concentrate.'
  • Learners sometimes say 'focus in' instead of 'focus on.'
  • Misusing 'focus' as a noun in places where an adjective form is needed.