attention was centered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attention was centered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where focus or concentration is directed towards a specific subject or event. Example: "During the presentation, attention was centered on the new product launch, highlighting its innovative features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Recognizing that attention was centered on him, Lieutenant An stepped forward with a smile.

The New Yorker

But throughout the stop-and-start proceedings, the attention was centered on Mr. Corzine.

The New York Times

Much of the attention was centered on Rock's Catholic beliefs, and his willingness to support the pill despite his faith's opposition.

Harvard University

Copeland shared a room with the Bradleys' young son, Wolf, attended synagogue with Bradley's parents, and at the dinner table all attention was centered on her and her goals.

The New Yorker

But since attention was centered on the issues which we have discussed, the remaining questions were not fully presented to this Court either in the briefs or oral argument.

Cornell University

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Horn said that Disney's attention was centered on the forthcoming stage version of the blockbuster animated hit.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Special attention is centered on curved laminates.

Composite Structures

Among the possible opponents, attention is centered on Betty D. Montgomery, the attorney general of Ohio, and the two other Republicans among the 19: Carla J. Stovall of Kansas and Jim Ryan of Illinois.

The New York Times

But at the moment, attention is centered on the Hispanic Republican vote for the primary.

Huffington Post

Hospice volunteers called us frequently to ask if we needed help washing dishes, preparing a meal, all the little things you take for granted when all your time and attention is centered on your loved one.

Huffington Post

LONDON — While most of the Olympic attention on Tuesday was centered on the aquatics center and the gymnastics ring, the beach volleyball court at Horse Guards Parade was full of activity, as top-ranked teams continued their quest to reach the Olympic final.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attention was centered", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what or whom the attention was directed towards to maintain clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "attention was centered" without explicitly stating what the attention was centered on. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. Instead of saying "Attention was centered", specify "Attention was centered on the new findings."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attention was centered" functions as a passive construction indicating where focus or interest is directed. Ludwig confirms its correctness, showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "attention was centered" is a grammatically correct passive construction used to indicate where focus or interest is directed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears most frequently in "News & Media", "Science", and "Academia". While "attention was centered" isn't incorrect, clarity is key and is considered a neutral phrase appropriate for formal and informal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it clearly points to what is receiving the attention to avoid ambiguity. If needed, alternatives include "focus was directed", "emphasis was placed" and "interest was focused".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focus was directed

Replaces "attention" with "focus" and uses the same passive construction.

emphasis was placed

Shifts from attention to emphasis, highlighting importance.

interest was focused

Uses "interest" instead of "attention", maintaining a passive voice.

spotlight was on

Employs a metaphorical "spotlight" to indicate where attention is directed.

priority was given

Highlights the prioritization of attention towards a specific subject.

eyes were on

Uses a more direct, visual metaphor for attention.

the main focus was

Indicates the central point of attention or interest.

the key area was

Specifies a key area receiving attention.

importance was given to

Highlights the importance attached to a specific subject.

the subject of interest was

Formally states what held interest or attention.

FAQs

What does "attention was centered" mean?

The phrase "attention was centered" indicates that focus, interest, or scrutiny was primarily directed towards a specific subject, topic, or individual.

What can I say instead of "attention was centered"?

You can use alternatives like "focus was directed", "emphasis was placed", or "interest was focused" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "attention was centered" formal or informal?

The phrase "attention was centered" is generally considered neutral to formal and can be used in academic, professional, and news contexts.

How to use "attention was centered" in a sentence?

For example, you might say, "During the meeting, "attention was centered" on the budget proposal." You can also check the real example sentences on this page.