an enormous obsession

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an enormous obsession" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong and overwhelming fixation or preoccupation with something. Example: "Her interest in collecting rare stamps turned into an enormous obsession that consumed her free time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"There always seems to be an enormous obsession with one player," said Hodgson.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A: Enormous, enormous self-doubt.

Science Magazine

"What an enormous transformation".

The New York Times

He received an enormous ovation.

The New York Times - Arts

This is an enormous tragedy.

The New York Times

"I am an enormous fan".

The New York Times

That is an enormous opportunity".

The Guardian - Books

This was an enormous mistake.

The New York Times

This is an enormous advantage".

Independent

Netscape was an enormous success.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That was an enormous breakthrough.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an enormous obsession", ensure the context clearly indicates the object of the obsession to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an enormous obsession" for trivial interests; reserve it for truly significant and dominating preoccupations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an enormous obsession" functions as a noun phrase, where "enormous" modifies the noun "obsession". Ludwig AI validates this by showcasing examples where it acts as a subject complement or part of a prepositional phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an enormous obsession" is a noun phrase used to describe a very strong and overwhelming preoccupation with something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, albeit with relatively low frequency. While it's generally considered neutral in register, it’s important to use it appropriately, reserving it for describing truly significant and dominating interests. Alternative phrases like "a consuming passion" or "a significant fixation" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obsessive interest

Directly conveys an unhealthy or excessive focus.

an overwhelming preoccupation

Focuses on the dominating aspect of the interest.

a significant fixation

Emphasizes the intensity of focus on something.

a deep-seated fascination

Implies a long-lasting and profound interest.

a consuming interest

Implies the interest takes up a lot of time and thought.

a consuming passion

Highlights the intensity and all-encompassing nature of the interest.

an all-absorbing passion

Highlights how the interest takes over one's attention.

a gripping fixation

Suggests an intense and compelling focus.

a powerful infatuation

Suggests a strong and often irrational attachment.

a ruling interest

Indicates that the interest has a controlling influence.

FAQs

How can I use "an enormous obsession" in a sentence?

You can use "an enormous obsession" to describe a strong and overwhelming preoccupation with something. For example, "His interest in antique cars developed into "an enormous obsession" that consumed all his free time."

What are some alternatives to "an enormous obsession"?

Alternatives include "a consuming passion", "a significant fixation", or "an overwhelming preoccupation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "an enormous obsession" in formal writing?

Yes, "an enormous obsession" can be used in formal writing, but ensure the context warrants the intensity of the phrase. Consider alternatives like "a strong interest" if the preoccupation is less severe.

What's the difference between "an enormous obsession" and "a strong interest"?

"An enormous obsession" implies a preoccupation that is all-consuming and potentially unhealthy, while "a strong interest" suggests a keen but balanced enthusiasm.