I was focussed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was focussed" is correct in written English, although "focused" is the more common spelling in American English.
You can use it when describing a state of concentration or attention in the past. Example: "During the meeting, I was focussed on the presentation and missed the side conversations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I was focussed.

The New Yorker

So I was focussed on this issue of why Kerry didn't talk more about faith.

The New Yorker

"I was focussed," Kattan said, on the phone, from her home in Dubai.

The New Yorker

I was focussed on 'the "Today" family,' but Bryant couldn't take his hands off the wheel".

The New Yorker

"I was focussed on corporate culture before it was cool," he told me.

The New Yorker

I couldn't tell you what they were doing; I was focussed completely on Just relax and con-cen-trate.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

I was focused, ready.

The New York Times - Sports

"I was focused on being a mother.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I was focusing on my opponent today.

Independent

I was focused on the restaurant".

The New York Times

I was focused, I wasn't nervous.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was focused" when writing for a primarily American audience; "I was focussed" is generally understood but may be perceived as British or less common.

Common error

Avoid assuming "focussed" is universally incorrect. While "focused" is more prevalent in American English, "focussed" is a valid spelling, especially in British English. Choose the appropriate spelling based on your target audience or writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was focussed" functions as a statement describing a past state of being, specifically one characterized by concentration or attention. As Ludwig AI explains, it correctly conveys a state of concentration or attention in the past.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was focussed" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a past state of concentration. While "focused" is the more common spelling in American English, "focussed" remains valid, especially in British English. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used to describe a state of concentration. The examples show its prevalence in news and media contexts. Consider alternatives like "I was concentrating" or "I was absorbed" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was concentrating

Replaces 'focussed' with 'concentrating', emphasizing mental effort.

I was focused

Uses the more common American English spelling of 'focussed'.

My attention was directed

Shifts the focus to 'attention' being directed, offering a slightly more formal tone.

I was giving my full attention

Highlights the act of giving attention, emphasizing commitment.

I was engrossed

Implies being deeply absorbed and losing track of surroundings.

I was absorbed

Similar to 'engrossed', but may imply a slightly less intense level of absorption.

I was intent

Focuses on the intention and determination behind the concentration.

I had my mind set

Emphasizes a pre-determined decision to concentrate on something.

I was dead set

Similar to "I had my mind set" but amplifies it with greater determination.

I was single-minded

Highlights unwavering focus, excluding distractions.

FAQs

What's the difference between "I was focused" and "I was focussed"?

"I was focused" and "I was focussed" have the same meaning. "Focused" is the more common spelling in American English, while "focussed" is often preferred in British English. Both are grammatically correct, so choose the spelling that aligns with your audience or style guide.

What can I say instead of "I was focussed"?

You can use alternatives like "I was concentrating", "I was absorbed", or "I was engrossed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "I was focussed" in a sentence?

Use "I was focussed" to describe a past state of concentration or attention. For example, you could say, "I was focussed on completing the project before the deadline", or "I was focussed on the lecture and didn't notice the time passing."

Is "I was focussed" formal or informal?

"I was focussed" is generally considered neutral in formality. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall context and vocabulary used in your writing. It's suitable for most general writing situations.