a singular preoccupation with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a singular preoccupation with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an intense or exclusive focus on a particular subject or issue. Example: "Her singular preoccupation with perfection often led her to overlook the joy of the creative process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Nevertheless, a singular preoccupation with game is widely considered U.C.B.'s main contribution to the pedagogy of improv.

The New York Times

Her work has changed over the years — a singular preoccupation with formal experimentation giving way to include an interest in storytelling.

The New Yorker

Theirs is a singular preoccupation with Israel.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A search for the Theory of Everything has been as much a feature of biological research as it has been a singular preoccupation of theoretical physicists.

EMBO Molecular Medicine

Postapocalyptic times, and their singular preoccupation with survival, look easy compared with this journey to the end game.

The New York Times - Books

"The weight of the past has sometimes been more present than the present itself," the author Enrique Krauze once wrote of Mexicans' singular preoccupation with history's legacy, the crucible of conquest and colonialism, reform and revolution that forged their modern outlook.

The New York Times

Similarly, Kierkegaard saw himself as a "singular universal" whose personal preoccupation with himself was transfigured by divine Governance into universal significance.

SEP

I had entered in part because I had a bit of a preoccupation with Plath.

The New York Times

Everyone should be careful to use a singular pronoun with singular nouns in their writing.

The New York Times

Feature's owner was a singular man with a singular name, Hudson, and he became Ray's dealer and confidant.

The New Yorker

Figure  16b illustrates a singular configuration with the minimum singular value equal to zero (the worst possible quality).

Autonomous Robots

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a singular preoccupation with" to convey a strong, almost obsessive, focus on a particular subject. This phrase is best suited for formal writing or when you want to emphasize the intensity of the focus.

Common error

Avoid using "a singular preoccupation with" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "intense focus" or "deep concern" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a singular preoccupation with" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of being intensely focused on something. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a singular preoccupation with" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an intense, almost obsessive focus on a particular subject. Ludwig's analysis indicates it is most commonly found in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While not exceptionally frequent, the phrase is valuable for emphasizing the intensity of focus, and as the Ludwig AI confirms, is suitable for written English. Remember to use it judiciously and vary your language to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intense focus on

This alternative focuses on the intensity of the focus, emphasizing concentration.

a strong fixation on

This alternative suggests an almost obsessive focus, implying that the subject is difficult to ignore.

a deep concern for

This alternative shifts the focus to care and worry related to the subject.

an obsessive interest in

This alternative suggests an unhealthy or excessive interest.

a dominant concern with

This alternative emphasizes that the subject is the main or most important concern.

a primary focus of

This alternative simplifies the phrase, emphasizing that the subject is the main area of attention.

an overriding concern for

This alternative suggests the concern takes precedence over other considerations.

a consuming passion for

This alternative intensifies the focus, implying a dedication that takes up much time and energy.

a marked obsession with

This alternative highlights the conspicuous and potentially unhealthy nature of the focus.

an all-consuming interest in

This alternative emphasizes that the interest dominates one's attention and energy.

FAQs

How can I use "a singular preoccupation with" in a sentence?

You can use "a singular preoccupation with" to describe someone's intense focus or interest in something. For example, "Her singular preoccupation with environmental issues drove her to start a recycling program."

What are some alternatives to "a singular preoccupation with"?

Alternatives include "an intense focus on", "a strong fixation on", or "a deep concern for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a singular preoccupation with"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that someone is extremely focused or concerned about a particular topic, perhaps to an unusual or even obsessive degree.

Is "a singular preoccupation with" formal or informal?

The phrase is relatively formal and suitable for academic, professional, or journalistic writing. In more casual contexts, simpler terms like "obsession" or "interest" might be more appropriate.