But focused

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "But focused" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a contrast or a shift in attention, often following a statement that describes a different state or condition. Example: "The team was initially distracted by the noise, but focused on the task at hand once the meeting began."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The terms of reference were "comprehensive but focused".

The Guardian

Instead, the challenge is to remain calm but focused.

The Guardian - Sport

Hannah Morton-Hedgesaysys it should be lively, but focused.

The Guardian

The lights were bright, the mood was genial but focused.

The New York Times - Style

The Shelf has a similar strategy, exchanging discounts for information but focused particularly on fashion.

The Guardian - Tech

Described like this, it makes the chef sound questioning but focused.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It included information about the world, but focused on Joel, Ellie and their interlinked arcs.

The Guardian - Tech

Like, an uncomplicated but focused series of two events that happens between 7 and 11pm".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

His introduction is straightforward enough, but focused as much on the weather as the speech.

The Guardian

Giambi struck out twice today but focused on his two hard-hit outs.

The New York Times - Sports

During our three days there, fellow guests maintained tournament temperament: pleasant but focused.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but focused" to clearly indicate a shift in attention or emphasis after acknowledging a potentially distracting factor. This helps to maintain clarity and coherence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "but focused" when a simpler conjunction like "and" or no conjunction at all would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex. For instance, instead of 'He was tired but focused', try 'He was tired yet maintained his focus'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but focused" functions as a conjunction phrase, linking two contrasting elements within a sentence. It typically connects a statement about a challenge, obstacle, or contrasting state with the subsequent maintenance of focus. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase is grammatically correct and used to indicate a contrast or a shift in attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but focused" serves as a conjunction phrase, effectively linking contrasting elements while highlighting resilience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its frequency and usage across diverse domains like News & Media and Science suggest versatility. For those seeking alternatives, options like "yet attentive" or "still concentrated" offer nuanced substitutions. However, writers should avoid overuse in simple sentences where simpler conjunctions suffice. "But focused" is a valuable tool for emphasizing determination in the face of challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Though attentive

A simpler and more direct way to express a contrast in focus.

Despite that, focused

A straightforward way to introduce a contrasting element of focus.

In spite of that, focused

Similar to 'despite that', this option emphasizes the difficulty overcome to maintain focus.

Yet attentive

This alternative uses a more formal tone, suggesting a higher degree of attentiveness.

However attentive

Similar to "yet attentive", this option emphasizes contrast with the initial situation.

Still concentrated

This highlights the sustained effort of focusing despite distractions.

Even so, focused

Indicates that despite a previous circumstance, focus was maintained.

Nevertheless attentive

A more formal option, suitable for academic or professional writing.

Nonetheless, focused

A more emphatic way to express that focus persisted despite something else.

Notwithstanding the distraction, focused

This version explicitly acknowledges and contrasts the distraction.

FAQs

How can I use "but focused" in a sentence?

Use "but focused" to show a contrast where someone or something maintains concentration despite another factor. For example: "The team faced many challenges, "but focused" on the primary goal."

What are some alternatives to "but focused"?

Alternatives include "yet attentive", "however attentive", or "still concentrated". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it grammatically correct to use "but focused"?

Yes, using "but focused" is grammatically correct. It functions as a conjunction phrase, connecting two contrasting ideas within a sentence. However, ensure it fits the context and isn't redundant.

What's the difference between "but focused" and "yet focused"?

"But focused" and "yet focused" are very similar. "Yet" often implies a stronger sense of surprise or contrast than "but". Choose the one that best reflects the nuance you want to convey.