Obsessive focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Obsessive focus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an intense or singular concentration on a particular subject or task. Example: "Her obsessive focus on perfectionism often led her to miss deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Obsessive focus on preserving the theoretical possibility of a two-state solution is as irrational as rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic rather than steering clear of icebergs.

The New York Times

The obsessive focus on sex has done enough harm.

The New York Times - Sports

McKellen's obsessive focus makes him a dangerous actor.

The New Yorker

Mr. Weill is known for his obsessive focus on expenses.

The New York Times

What kind of circumstances provoke an obsessive focus on the most minute object or activity?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The last of these — the President — was the singular, obsessive focus of most Republican campaigns.

The New Yorker

Even before the game started, Smith watched the introduction of the Pelicans with obsessive focus.

The New Yorker

Hand in hand with this is parents' obsessive focus on formal education.

The New York Times

Excelling at his work, Land said, requires an obsessive focus on it.

The Washington Post

An obsessive focus on grades undermines teachers' efforts to inspire students.

The New York Times

Ditching the obsessive focus on the idea of the ebook might also help e-publishing grow.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obsessive focus", consider the connotations. While it can describe dedication, it also suggests an unhealthy or excessive preoccupation. Ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "obsessive focus" in contexts where a more positive or neutral term like "dedication" or "strong focus" would be more appropriate. "Obsessive" carries a connotation of being excessive or potentially unhealthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obsessive focus" functions as a noun phrase, where "obsessive" modifies the noun "focus". It describes a particular kind of focus characterized by intensity and potential excess. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obsessive focus" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes intense concentration, sometimes implying a preoccupation that could be perceived as excessive. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. It appears most often in News & Media, followed by Academia, and carries a neutral to formal register. While generally acceptable, be mindful of its potentially negative connotations and consider alternatives like "intense concentration" or "singular focus" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Intense concentration

Replaces the adjective "obsessive" with "intense" while retaining the core meaning of strong focus.

Singular focus

Emphasizes the idea of a single, unwavering point of concentration.

Unwavering attention

Highlights the steadfast and continuous nature of the focus.

Laser-like concentration

Uses a simile to highlight the precision and intensity of the focus.

Compulsive preoccupation

Conveys a sense of being consumed or overly concerned with something.

Fixed gaze

Uses a metaphorical expression to illustrate a persistent and directed focus.

Consuming interest

Implies that the focus completely absorbs one's attention and energy.

Overriding obsession

Suggests that the focus has become a dominant and potentially unhealthy preoccupation.

Monomaniacal pursuit

Indicates a singular and potentially extreme focus on a specific goal or interest.

Ruthless prioritization

Underscores the unwavering commitment and determination to concentrate on a key objective.

FAQs

How can I use "Obsessive focus" in a sentence?

You can use "obsessive focus" to describe someone's intense concentration on a particular task or subject. For example, "His obsessive focus on the project led to its successful completion."

What's the difference between "Obsessive focus" and "Intense concentration"?

"Obsessive focus" suggests a preoccupation that may be unhealthy or excessive, while "intense concentration" simply indicates a high degree of focus.

What are some alternative ways to say "Obsessive focus"?

Alternatives include "singular focus", "unwavering attention", or "laser-like concentration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "Obsessive focus" instead of "Dedicated attention"?

Use "obsessive focus" when you want to highlight the potentially negative or all-consuming aspect of someone's concentration. "Dedicated attention" is a more neutral or positive term.