a particular fixation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular fixation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific obsession or intense focus on something. Example: "His art reflects a particular fixation on the themes of isolation and solitude."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Balenciaga had a particular fixation with sleeves.

The New York Times

The English have a particular fixation with the package.

The Guardian

But being a disabled woman often means facing men who have a particular fixation on disabled sexuality – whether they're on or offline.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He had a particular fixation with the Columbine high school tragedy of April 1999, in which two students killed 12 other students and a teacher in Colorado.

The Guardian

He showed a particular fixation on the ideas that Muslim men should be bearded, and should hold one another's hands.

The New York Times

Yet, it is white working-class people like Betty who have become a particular fixation among the chattering class during this election: what is this angry beast, and why does it support Trump? Hard numbers complicate, if not roundly dismiss, the oft-regurgitated theory that income or education levels predict Trump support, or that working-class whites support him disproportionately.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Greenfield's extensive photographic project features 14 chapters, each focusing on a particular population, fixation or epidemic.

Huffington Post

In the towering fuzzy hat and bright red uniform of a British beefeater guard, Phillip Buehler explained his particular fixation: Major Zipper, the similarly uniformed mascot of the Conmar Zipper factory in Newark.

The New York Times

You ask yourself, "Without drinking, what's the point?" And then you realize that's how you sincerely feel, and it's even bleaker, until you muster the strength somehow, to not allow this particular fixation to dominate you.

Forbes

In particular, fixation enhances labeling of the fringe-like structure in the apex of some caulonemal cells.

Plosone

In particular, fixation index (FST) is one of the most widely used descriptive measures of population and evolutionary genetics [ 8].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a particular fixation", consider the connotations of 'fixation'. It can imply an unhealthy or obsessive focus, so choose it carefully if you want to convey a neutral or positive meaning. Consider using alternatives like "keen interest" or "strong preoccupation" for a less intense meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular fixation" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Its intensity can become monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms like "interest", "preoccupation", or "fascination" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular fixation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a specific instance of someone having a strong focus or obsession. Ludwig AI indicates that this is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a particular fixation" is grammatically sound and can be utilized in both writing and speech to denote a specific and often intense preoccupation or interest. As highlighted by Ludwig, while technically accurate, be mindful of the connotations of "fixation", which can lean towards obsession. If a more neutral tone is desired, consider alternatives like "keen interest" or "strong preoccupation". Predominantly appearing in News & Media and Science contexts, the expression carries a formal tone. Remember to vary vocabulary to prevent repetitiveness, as using "a particular fixation" multiple times can become monotonous for readers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific obsession

Replaces 'fixation' with 'obsession', implying a stronger and potentially more unhealthy focus.

a prevailing obsession

Highlights that the obsession is present and widespread.

an intense preoccupation

Highlights the intensity and pervasiveness of the preoccupation.

a strong preoccupation

Replaces 'fixation' with 'preoccupation', indicating a dominant and absorbing focus.

a consuming interest

Suggests that the interest is all-encompassing and dominates one's thoughts.

a marked fascination

Uses 'fascination' instead of 'fixation', implying a captivating and engaging interest.

a keen interest

Substitutes 'fixation' with 'interest', suggesting a milder and more positive focus.

a ruling passion

A passion that takes over someone's life and directs their behavior.

a singular focus

Emphasizes the unique and concentrated nature of the focus.

an absorbing passion

Replaces 'fixation' with 'passion', indicating a strong and enthusiastic interest.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular fixation" in a sentence?

You can use "a particular fixation" to describe someone's intense focus or obsession with something. For example, "He developed "a particular fixation" on collecting vintage stamps."

What can I say instead of "a particular fixation"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific obsession", "a keen interest", or "a strong preoccupation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a particular fixation"?

Not necessarily. While "fixation" can imply an unhealthy obsession, it can also describe an intense and sustained interest. The context determines whether it carries a negative connotation.

What's the difference between "a particular fixation" and "a particular interest"?

"A particular fixation" suggests a more intense and potentially obsessive focus, while "a particular interest" implies a milder and more positive focus. The first is more intense than the latter.