Focus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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focus

[ˈfoʊkəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mental concentration

Focus is the ability to concentrate on a specific task or goal. It involves directing your attention and energy towards achieving a desired outcome.

Synonyms

attention, concentration, concentration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
focus	Used when emphasizing the main point or a specific target. Often involves directing effort or thought towards a particular area or task. He needs to focus on his studies if he wants to pass the exams The camera needs to be in focus for a clear picture
concentration	Used when referring to intense mental effort or focus on a particular task or subject, often involving exclusion of distractions. She maintained a high level of concentration during the chess match It is difficult to maintain concentration in a noisy environment
attention	Refers to the act of noticing or taking interest in something. It is often used in situations where awareness or mindfulness is required. Pay attention to the instructions given by the teacher The loud noise caught everyone's attention

Word

Description / Examples

focus

Used when emphasizing the main point or a specific target. Often involves directing effort or thought towards a particular area or task.

He needs to focus on his studies if he wants to pass the exams
The camera needs to be in focus for a clear picture

concentration

Used when referring to intense mental effort or focus on a particular task or subject, often involving exclusion of distractions.

She maintained a high level of concentration during the chess match
It is difficult to maintain concentration in a noisy environment

attention

Refers to the act of noticing or taking interest in something. It is often used in situations where awareness or mindfulness is required.

Pay attention to the instructions given by the teacher
The loud noise caught everyone's attention

Examples of usage

She needs to maintain her focus during the exam.
Lack of focus can lead to poor performance.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to concentrate

To focus means to direct one's attention or energy towards a specific task or goal. It involves eliminating distractions and staying committed to achieving the desired outcome.

Synonyms

concentrate, fixate, pay attention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
focus	Use 'focus' when directing mental or physical effort towards a particular task or goal. It is commonly used in both everyday and professional contexts and doesn't carry a negative connotation. I need to focus on finishing my homework tonight. In his speech, he focused on the key issues facing the company.
concentrate	Use 'concentrate' when emphasizing the need for deep mental effort or the act of gathering one's thoughts to achieve a specific task. It's often used in contexts where mental intensity or effort is required. Please be quiet; I need to concentrate on this report. She concentrated intensely on remembering the details.
pay attention	Use 'pay attention' in casual or formal situations where the aim is to listen or observe carefully. It is often used in instructional contexts or when asking someone to be mindful of something. Please pay attention to the safety instructions. In class, students need to pay attention to the teacher.
fixate	Use 'fixate' in contexts where there is an excessive or obsessive focus on something, often to the point where it becomes unhealthy or irrational. This word generally carries a negative connotation. He tends to fixate on minor details, which slows down the project. She was fixated on the idea of becoming a celebrity, to the detriment of her personal life.

Examples of usage

She needs to focus on her studies to improve her grades.
He focused all his energy on completing the project.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'focus'

The word 'focus' originated from the Latin word 'focus', meaning 'hearth' or 'fireplace'. In the 17th century, it was first used in English to refer to the point of convergence of light or sound waves. Over time, the term evolved to also encompass mental concentration and attention.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,428, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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1425 sat
1426 bar
1427 sign
1428 focus
1429 substantial
1430 environmental
1431 arm
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