a clear focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear focus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of having a specific and well-defined objective or concentration in a particular context. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we need to maintain a clear focus on our target audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It helps to have a clear focus.

The Economist

Al Qaeda has a clear focus.

The New York Times

"Having a clear focus really helped me".

The Guardian

Citigroup's consumer operations have limped along without a clear focus.

The New York Times

Bob Allison, vice-chancellor of Loughborough University, puts Loughborough's success down to having a clear focus.

The Guardian

For some, the Regents tests have provided a clear focus for their academic efforts.

The New York Times

Each has a case to make and a clear focus for discussion.

The Guardian

I came here with a clear focus: to centre God in my life.

The Guardian - Opinion

But each has a case to make and a clear focus for discussion.

The Guardian

Strong governance and a clear focus on a true transition towards sustainable energy infrastructure are crucial".

The Guardian

For starters, it takes a lot of determined people and a clear focus.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear focus", ensure that the context provides enough information about what the focus is. For example, instead of saying "The project needs a clear focus", specify "The project needs a clear focus on customer satisfaction."

Common error

Avoid using "a clear focus" in vague or general contexts. Always clarify the specific area or goal to which the focus is directed, otherwise the phrase loses its impact and becomes meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear focus" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It denotes a specific point of concentration or emphasis. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used to highlight the importance of having a well-defined objective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Huffington Post

5%

European Transport Research Review

1%

Huffington Post Opinion

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear focus" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that emphasizes the need for a specific and well-defined objective. As Ludwig AI highlights, it appears frequently across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business. While the phrase is versatile, it's crucial to ensure specificity in its application to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like ""a distinct emphasis"" or ""a sharp focus"" can provide subtle nuances in meaning. When writing, always clarify the specific area or goal to which the focus is directed, enhancing the phrase's impact and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definite focus

Replaces "clear" with "definite", suggesting a more certain and distinct focus.

a sharp focus

Replaces "clear" with "sharp", implying a more acute and well-defined focus.

a specific focus

Replaces "clear" with "specific", emphasizing the particularity of the focus.

a distinct emphasis

Shifts from "focus" to "emphasis", highlighting a particular point or importance.

a concentrated effort

Replaces "focus" with "effort", emphasizing dedicated work towards a goal.

a primary objective

Substitutes "focus" with "objective", indicating a main goal or aim.

a singular purpose

Replaces "focus" with "purpose", conveying a unique and unwavering intention.

a well-defined aim

Replaces "clear focus" with "well-defined aim", stressing the clarity and precision of the goal.

a strategic orientation

Uses more formal language, suggesting a planned and deliberate focus.

a targeted approach

Highlights that the focus is specific and aimed at a particular target.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clear focus" to emphasize the importance of having a specific objective. For example, "The company needs "a clear focus" on innovation to remain competitive."

What are some alternatives to "a clear focus"?

Alternatives include "a distinct emphasis", "a sharp focus", or "a specific focus", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a clear focus" or "clear focus"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "a clear focus" is more common when referring to a single, specific area of concentration. "Clear focus" without the article is often used in more general contexts.

What's the difference between "a clear focus" and "a clear goal"?

"A clear goal" refers to a specific objective to achieve. "A clear focus" indicates the area or subject to which attention and effort are directed. You might have "a clear focus" on product development with the goal of launching a new product.