at the focal point of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the focal point of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the central or most important aspect of a discussion, issue, or situation. Example: "The debate on climate change is currently at the focal point of international policy discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Such units could have only one filament at the focal point of the reflector.

Britannica

The stove has a fixed heat-receiving area located at the focal point of the lens.

Renewable Energy

The source is imaged at the focal point of a compound magnetic lens array.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms

It follows objects with a moving instrument package at the focal point of the telescope mirror.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The sample was placed into an environmental cell at the focal point of the sample compartment of the infrared spectrometer.

Nature

In addition, because rods are rare at the focal point of the eye (fovea), scotopic vision is often blurry.

Cornell University

A maleimide group was used at the focal point of the dendron for easy linkage to the scFv.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry

And the effect of the operation is to strike fear into ordinary Americans at the focal point of the nation's political decision-making and media coverage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

8 p.m. 3) OFF OFF OFF BROADWAY Take in a play at the Resource Center for the Arts, the focal point of the city's arts scene.

The New York Times - Travel

He captains the bobsleigh team for a second time at the 1932 Winter Games, an encore that – including the troubled birth of the resort at Lake Placid – forms the focal point of the story.

The Guardian - Books

At Altamira Plaza, the focal point of the anti-Chávez movement, senior military officers parade about in uniform and give rousing speeches calling on the armed forces to demand that President Chávez step down.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the focal point of" to emphasize the central or most important aspect of a topic, argument, or situation, ensuring clarity and focus for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "at the focal point of" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct phrases like "the main thing" or "the key point" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the focal point of" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It indicates location, direction, or association, pinpointing the central or most significant element within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the focal point of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to highlight the central or most important aspect of a subject. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various domains, including science, news, and encyclopedias. While suitable for formal and neutral contexts, it may be less appropriate for casual conversation. Related phrases include "at the center of" and "at the heart of", offering similar emphasis. When using "at the focal point of", prioritize clarity and ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing to effectively guide your audience's focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the center of

Indicates the core or most important part, similar to being at the focal point.

at the heart of

Implies the essential or fundamental nature, close in meaning to focal point.

in the spotlight

Suggests being the center of attention or interest, analogous to a focal point.

the main focus of

Directly indicates the primary subject of attention or activity.

the key element of

Highlights a crucial component, similar to being at the focal point.

the central issue of

Refers to the most important problem or question.

at the forefront of

Suggests being in a leading or prominent position.

the crux of

Refers to the decisive point.

the nucleus of

Indicates the core or central part around which other things are gathered.

the pivotal point of

Highlights a turning point or crucial aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "at the focal point of" in a sentence?

You can use "at the focal point of" to emphasize what is most important in a situation. For example, "The need for sustainable energy is "at the focal point of" current environmental discussions."

What phrases are similar to "at the focal point of"?

Similar phrases include "at the center of", "at the heart of", or "the main focus of". These alternatives also emphasize the central or most important aspect.

Is "at the focal point of" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "at the focal point of" is suitable for formal writing. It adds a level of sophistication and precision, making it ideal for academic papers, reports, and professional communications.

What is the difference between "at the focal point of" and "in the background of"?

"At the focal point of" indicates the central or most important element, while "in the background of" refers to something less prominent or influential. They represent opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of importance and attention.