a question of focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of focus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance of concentration or attention on a specific topic or issue. Example: "In this debate, it's really a question of focus; we need to prioritize the most pressing issues at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"It was a question of focus," he said.

The New York Times

That is fair but it is a question of focus.

The New York Times

It is all a question of focus, and by that I don't mean the focus of the photograph that provided the occasion for all this painting.

The Guardian - Arts

It's a question of focus, says Kerr.

Science Magazine

The issue before Democrats is a question of focus.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Why should it be a question of focusing on one or the other?" said Alex Rondos, Mr. Papandreou's chief adviser.

The New York Times

It's not a question of direction, or focus; it's a question of ability.

TechCrunch

The question about how much progress would be made in the next five to 10 years was a question of will, of focus and organization.

Unicef

So, I don't think it's a question of us focusing on one more than the other.

TechCrunch

"It was a question of being focused and intelligent, and to wait for the moment to create openings in their defence".

BBC

It's a question of creating the focus, but it can be done".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a question of focus", ensure the context clearly indicates what the focus should be. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of focus" when the specific area needing focus is not apparent. Always clarify what requires focus to maintain clarity and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of focus" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the core problem or challenge as being related to the allocation of attention or resources. It often serves to reframe a situation, indicating that the solution lies in directing effort appropriately. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a question of focus" is grammatically correct and usable in a variety of contexts. As Ludwig AI points out, it is typically used to indicate that the primary issue at hand involves where attention or effort should be directed. While "a question of focusing" is a possible alternative, "a question of focus" is more common and concise. Usage is frequent in the news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts. Alternatives like "a matter of priorities" or "a point of emphasis" offer similar meanings, emphasizing prioritization or strategic importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of priority

This highlights the importance of one thing over others.

a question of emphasis

Emphasis is a synonym, suggesting the difference lies in what is being stressed.

a matter of emphasis

This alternative suggests that the difference lies in what is being emphasized or highlighted.

a matter of priorities

This suggests that the choice depends on what is considered most important.

a matter of perspective

This alternative suggests that the issue depends on how one views the situation.

a matter of concentration

Focus is replaced by concentration, highlighting the need for intense mental effort.

an issue of attention

This alternative highlights attention, pointing to a lack of it.

a matter of orientation

Orientation is used instead of focus, referring to one's direction or alignment.

a question of intention

This focuses on the underlying purpose or aim.

a question of approach

This alternative emphasizes the method used to tackle something.

FAQs

How can I use "a question of focus" in a sentence?

You can use "a question of focus" when highlighting that the primary issue revolves around where attention or effort is directed. For example, "The project's success is "a question of focus"; we need to concentrate on the key deliverables".

What phrases are similar to "a question of focus"?

Similar phrases include "a matter of priorities", "an issue of attention", or "a point of emphasis". These alternatives can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. For example, if you want to point to one over other things use "a matter of priorities", instead.

Is it correct to say "a question of focusing" instead of "a question of focus"?

While "a question of focusing" is grammatically acceptable, "a question of focus" is more common and concise. The former emphasizes the act of focusing, while the latter refers to the area needing focus.

When should I use "a question of focus" versus "a question of emphasis"?

"A question of focus" is suitable when the issue is about directing attention or effort. "A question of emphasis" is more appropriate when the concern is about which aspects are being highlighted or stressed.