direct their focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "direct their focus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to concentrate their attention on a specific task or subject. Example: "In order to improve productivity, managers should direct their focus on team collaboration and communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

UN policymakers must direct their focus more than ever towards the correction of market failures so that the promotion of sustainable development becomes intrinsic.

The Guardian

Watson and other ethicists have argued that if workers at CMP was concerned about the way fetal tissue is handled, they would direct their focus to other problems and source of reform: procurement companies would be under the microscope, additional oversight might be recommended and statutory reforms proposed.

The Guardian

Those corporate leadership teams, Harris explained, direct their focus on growing an organization by hiring quality personnel and retaining them.

Forbes

The one form of externalization of self-identity that is healthy is when your children direct their focus and energies onto helping others.

Huffington Post

Still, concerned Naperville parents say children independently direct their focus to the weight measurement because it's prominently discussed among peers and on social media -- and because they live in a society that values being thin.

Huffington Post

The role of the moderators was to stimulate the participants to engage in an active discussion and to direct their focus towards the topics of interest.

BMC Geriatrics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In this paper lessons are drawn from past INRM research that may have particular relevance to IWRM scientists as they re-direct their focus from blue water issues to green water issues, and vice-versa.

Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A-B-C

The speed was break-neck and the intensity formidable (for both the students and me), so I assigned a simple check, check-plus, or check-minus, to mitigate the students' preoccupation with the grade and re-direct their focus to the feedback.

University of California, Berkeley

have directed their focus toward higher-quality design, a more-compelling food and beverage list, and events.

The New York Times

To optimize student education we developed and introduced the core learning objectives curriculum, which is designed to allow students freedom to direct their learning and focus on core concepts.

The Journal of Urology

Through focusing attention on a variety of external sensations (the sound of a bell, the look of a stone) and internal sensations (feeling happy or sad), children learn they can direct their attention and maintain focus.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "direct their focus", ensure the object of the focus is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what they should focus on or towards.

Common error

Avoid using "direct their focus" in situations where a gentler suggestion is more appropriate. In delicate or personal contexts, consider using softer alternatives such as "encourage their attention" or "suggest they consider".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direct their focus" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as a directive, instructing or advising individuals or groups on where to concentrate their attention or efforts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "direct their focus" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that serves to guide or channel attention toward a specific goal. It's most frequently found in News & Media and scientific contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the context when using this phrase, opting for softer alternatives in sensitive situations. The phrase is appropriate for professional settings where clear instruction and alignment are required. Alternatives such as "concentrate their efforts" or "channel their energies" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrate their efforts

Focuses more on the exertion of effort rather than just attention.

devote their attention

Stresses dedicating focus to something.

give their focus to

Highlights the act of providing attention to something.

channel their energies

Implies a redirection of energy towards a particular aim.

aim their focus at

Suggests targeting focus towards a specific point.

orient their attention

Highlights the act of positioning one's awareness.

gear their attention towards

Emphasizes the preparation and alignment of focus.

turn their minds to

Suggests a shift in mental consideration.

apply their minds to

Emphasizes the application of intellect to a specific task.

center their attention on

Implies bringing attention to the center or most important part of something.

FAQs

What does "direct their focus" mean?

The phrase "direct their focus" means to guide or channel someone's attention and effort toward a specific objective or area. It suggests a deliberate act of concentrating on a particular task or goal.

How can I use "direct their focus" in a sentence?

You can use "direct their focus" to instruct someone to concentrate on a specific task. For example, "In order to improve productivity, managers should "direct their focus" on team collaboration and communication."

What are some alternatives to "direct their focus"?

Alternatives include "concentrate their efforts", "channel their energies", or "orient their attention". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "direct their focus" versus other similar phrases?

Use "direct their focus" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and perhaps forceful guidance of attention. If a softer approach is needed, consider using phrases like "encourage their attention" or "suggest they consider".