are a preoccupation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a preoccupation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that occupies someone's thoughts or attention frequently or excessively. Example: "For many people, financial concerns are a preoccupation that affects their daily lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

To the extent that Big Russ has any non-platitudinous beliefs, they are a preoccupation with job security — the private economy as we now understand it doesn't occupy much space on his mental map — and a deep reverence for authority.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Recognition seems to be a preoccupation this year.

The New York Times - Sports

In 1997, as now, American monetary policy was a preoccupation.

The Economist

Seeking for things that are lost is a preoccupation.

The Guardian - Books

The misuse or even invention of verbs is a preoccupation.

The Guardian

Storytelling is a preoccupation in Rachel Cusk's new novel, Outline.

The Guardian - Books

The line has been a preoccupation for some time.

The Guardian - Arts

For that latter group, regaining custody is a preoccupation.

The New York Times - Magazine

For a long time, fitting has been a preoccupation, a theme in Ms. Dickerson's life.

The New York Times

Part of the problem is a preoccupation with the here and now.

The New York Times

Gaming those calculations seems to have been a preoccupation at the bank.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are a preoccupation" when you want to express that certain things are constantly in someone's thoughts, often causing worry or intense focus. Make sure the context aligns with the somewhat negative connotation of being overly focused.

Common error

Avoid using "are a preoccupation" when a more neutral term like "are a focus" or "are a concern" would be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly dramatic or negative when it's not intended. Consider the specific nuance you want to convey and choose the phrasing that best fits the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a preoccupation" functions primarily as a predicate nominative, linking a plural subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. Ludwig AI confirms this usage by providing examples where the phrase clarifies what the subject's consistent concern or focus is.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are a preoccupation" is grammatically correct and serves to indicate that certain things are a constant concern or focus in someone's thoughts. Ludwig AI affirms this. While authoritative sources use it, its relatively low frequency suggests it's not a universally common phrase. Primarily found in News & Media, it carries a somewhat negative connotation, implying a higher level of worry or intense focus than a simple interest. Alternatives like "are a major concern" may offer a less intense alternative. Therefore, exercise judgment in choosing the best phrasing to convey the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are a major concern

Emphasizes the significance of the concern.

are a central focus

Highlights the importance of the focus.

are constantly thinking about

Focuses on the continuous thought process.

are obsessed with

Indicates an excessive and often unhealthy level of interest.

are fixated on

Suggests a strong and unwavering focus, potentially to an excessive degree.

are always on someone's mind

Highlights the persistent presence of something in one's thoughts.

loom large in someone's thinking

Implies that something is a significant and unavoidable consideration.

weigh heavily on someone

Emphasizes the burden and worry associated with something.

are intensely interested in

Highlights a strong level of interest and engagement.

are deeply absorbed in

Suggests a state of being completely engrossed and focused.

FAQs

How can I use "are a preoccupation" in a sentence?

Use "are a preoccupation" to indicate that certain thoughts or concerns frequently occupy someone's mind. For example, "For many, economic uncertainties "are a preoccupation" during times of recession."

What's a good alternative to "are a preoccupation" that doesn't sound so intense?

Consider using phrases like "are a major concern" or "are a central focus" for a less intense and more neutral tone.

Is it correct to say "is a preoccupation" instead of "are a preoccupation"?

Yes, but the correct form depends on the subject. Use "is a preoccupation" with singular subjects (e.g., "His health is a preoccupation") and "are a preoccupation" with plural subjects (e.g., "Their financial worries are a preoccupation").

When is it appropriate to use "are a preoccupation" instead of "are a hobby"?

"Are a preoccupation" suggests a more intense and often anxious focus, while "are a hobby" implies a pleasurable and leisurely activity. Use "are a preoccupation" when the topic causes worry or significant mental engagement, not just casual interest.