are obsessed with

USAGE SUMMARY

"are obsessed with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is overly passionate about or devoted to something. For example: Some people are obsessed with collecting rare coins.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Men are obsessed with sex.

The New Yorker

They are obsessed with growth.

The Economist

"People are obsessed with those.

The New Yorker

They are obsessed with motorcycles.

The New York Times

Beer drinkers are obsessed with style.

Independent

— children are obsessed with their shadows.

The New York Times - Books

So many people are obsessed with sex.

The New York Times

And even intellectuals are obsessed with TV".

The Economist

AMERICANS are obsessed with their scores.

The New York Times

New Yorkers are obsessed with living spaces.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A father our daughters are obsessed with.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are obsessed with" to convey a strong and often irrational preoccupation. Ensure the context supports this level of intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "are obsessed with" too frequently, as it can weaken the impact. Vary your language with synonyms like "are captivated by" or "are deeply engrossed in" for better expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are obsessed with" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the subject's state of being. According to Ludwig AI, it accurately conveys that someone is overly preoccupied with or devoted to something. It expresses a strong emotional or mental preoccupation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are obsessed with" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a strong preoccupation or interest. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts. While generally neutral, its intensity should be considered, and synonyms like "are captivated by" or "are passionate about" can offer alternatives for varying degrees of emphasis. Use this phrase judiciously to maintain clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are consumed by

Indicates a complete absorption in something, suggesting a dominating influence.

are captivated by

Suggests a charming or fascinating quality that holds someone's attention intensely.

are infatuated with

Implies a foolish or extravagant passion or admiration.

are deeply engrossed in

Highlights being completely involved or focused on something.

are fixated on

Suggests an unhealthy or obsessive focus on something.

are enthusiastic about

Conveys a strong positive feeling and eagerness.

are passionate about

Emphasizes a strong and intense emotional drive.

are ardent about

Suggests a fervent and devoted interest.

are devoted to

Indicates a strong commitment and loyalty.

are keen on

Expresses a strong interest or liking.

FAQs

How can I use "are obsessed with" in a sentence?

Use "are obsessed with" to describe someone or something that is constantly on a person's mind or that they devote excessive time and energy to. For example, "Teenagers "are obsessed with" social media".

What's the difference between "are obsessed with" and "are interested in"?

"Are interested in" implies a general liking or curiosity, while "are obsessed with" suggests a much stronger, almost compulsive preoccupation. Obsession implies a lack of control and potentially negative consequences, which interest does not.

What can I say instead of "are obsessed with"?

You can use alternatives like "are captivated by", "are passionate about", or "are consumed by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to say someone is "obsessed with" something?

While "obsessed with" often carries a negative connotation of being overly focused or compulsive, it can sometimes be used in a neutral or even positive way to express intense enthusiasm or dedication, depending on the context.