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Refocus: meaning, definitions and examples

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refocus

 

[ rɪˈfoʊkəs ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

change perspective

To refocus means to change the direction or emphasis of one's attention or efforts towards something new or different. It often implies adjusting one's priorities to better align with changing goals or circumstances.

Synonyms

adjust, realign, redirect, reorient

Examples of usage

  • She decided to refocus her career towards environmental science.
  • The company needed to refocus its marketing strategy to reach a younger audience.
  • After the setback, he chose to refocus on his studies.
Context #2 | Verb

camera adjustment

In photography, to refocus is to adjust the lens of a camera to change the point of sharpness, ensuring that the subject is clear and in detail. This is essential for obtaining crisp and clear images.

Synonyms

adjust, recenter, sharpen

Examples of usage

  • He had to refocus the camera to capture the perfect shot.
  • The photographer quickly refocused as the bird flew into view.
  • Refocusing the lens helped enhance the clarity of the picture.

Etymology

The term 'refocus' originated in the early 20th century, combining the prefix 're-', meaning 'again' or 'back', and 'focus', derived from the Latin word 'focus', which means 'hearth' or 'fireplace'. The connection to 'hearth' suggests bringing something back into clarity or warmth, much like how focus in photography brings subjects into clear detail. Initially used in scientific and technical contexts, the word gained broader usage as both society and technology evolved. In modern contexts, 'refocus' emphasizes adaptability and the need to shift attention in personal, professional, and creative endeavors, reflecting our rapidly changing environments and priorities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,945, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.