center of attention

USAGE SUMMARY

"center of attention" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone or something that is the focus of an event or situation. For example, "The bride was the center of attention at the wedding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All three were the center of attention.

The New York Times - Sports

They become the center of attention.

The New York Times - Tech

"Don't make yourself the center of attention.

The New York Times - Sports

I shouldn't be the center of attention.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's not being the center of attention.

The New York Times

He immediately becomes the center of attention.

The New York Times

Inside, the center of attention was Cuba.

The New Yorker

I want to be the center of attention.

The New Yorker

Part of her simply enjoyed being the center of attention.

The New York Times - Magazine

I don't need to be the center of attention".

The New York Times - Arts

"She's always the center of attention," Mr. Rohlich said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "center of attention" when you want to emphasize that someone or something is the primary focus of interest or activity in a given situation. For example, "The new exhibit was the center of attention at the museum."

Common error

Avoid using "center of attention" when describing something that is simply important but not drawing active, noticeable focus from others. For example, using "center of attention" to describe a critical component within a machine is inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "center of attention" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the person, thing, or idea that is the primary focus of interest. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

32%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "center of attention" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone or something that is the primary focus of interest. As Ludwig AI verifies, it's frequently used in various contexts, especially in news and media. While it can be tempting to overuse it, remember that the phrase is most effective when the subject is genuinely and actively attracting notice. Consider alternatives like "focal point" or "prime attraction" for nuanced contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Being in the spotlight

Emphasizes public visibility and scrutiny, similar to being the "center of attention" with added pressure.

Focal point

Highlights the element that captures the most interest, akin to "center of attention" but applicable to objects or ideas.

Central figure

Highlights the person at the core of an event or situation, like the "center of attention" but focusing on centrality.

Object of interest

Highlights someone or something that is deemed worthy of attention or curiosity, very close to "center of attention" when that attention is wanted.

Main focus

Refers to the primary point of interest or concentration, similar to being the "center of attention" but with a less personified connotation.

Prime attraction

Indicates a major draw or appeal, aligning with the idea of being the "center of attention" in a desirable way.

Star of the show

Emphasizes prominence and admiration, similar to "center of attention" but often used in entertainment or performance contexts.

Life of the party

Implies an energetic and engaging presence, reflecting one way someone might be the "center of attention".

Most prominent aspect

Highlights the most noticeable or important element, similar to being the "center of attention" in a more formal setting.

Key figure

Signifies importance and influence, similar to being the "center of attention" but emphasizing the person's role.

FAQs

How can I use "center of attention" in a sentence?

Use "center of attention" to describe someone or something that everyone is focused on. For example, "The bride was the "center of attention" at the wedding."

What's a less common way to say "center of attention"?

While "center of attention" is common, you could use phrases like "focal point" or "prime attraction" for a slightly different nuance.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "center of attention"?

It's inappropriate if the subject isn't actually being actively noticed by others. Saying a background element is the "center of attention" when it's being ignored is incorrect.

What is the difference between "focus of attention" and "center of attention"?

"Focus of attention" is more general, referring to anything being concentrated on. "Center of attention" specifically implies that something or someone is receiving a lot of public notice or interest.