Fixations: meaning, definitions and examples

This is likely a repetition mistake, so it will not be described again.

Used to describe looking steadily and intently, often with admiration, curiosity, or contemplation.

• She gazed at the stars, lost in thought
• The artist gazed at his painting, searching for any imperfections

When someone looks at something or someone for a long time, often rudely or with intense curiosity. It can carry a slightly negative connotation.

• He stared at her without saying a word, making her feel uncomfortable
• The crowd stared at the accident scene

When someone is staring with their mouth open, usually in surprise, shock, or wonder.

• He was gaping at the sight of the Grand Canyon
• The children were gaping in amazement at the magician's tricks

Commonly used to describe an intense focus on something, often to an unhealthy degree. Can be used in both psychological and everyday contexts.

• His fixation on video games affected his school performance.
• She has a fixation with keeping everything perfectly organized.

Also used in psychological contexts, referring to persistent, intrusive thoughts that dominate one's mind. It can be used in everyday language to indicate extreme interest or enthusiasm.

• Her obsession with perfectionism creates a lot of stress for her.
• The movie became an obsession for him; he talked about it constantly.

Often used in psychological contexts to refer to an irresistible urge to perform actions, usually repetitively, as part of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It can also describe a strong, irresistible urge in a general sense.

• He feels a compulsion to wash his hands multiple times a day.
• There was a compulsion to check if the door was locked again and again.

Describes a state where someone's mind is dominated by one thought or concern, often resulting in them being distracted or unable to focus on other things. It's generally less intense than fixation or obsession.

• His preoccupation with work made it difficult for him to enjoy his vacation.
• She walked into the meeting with a preoccupation that was obvious to everyone.