emphasis was on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emphasis was on" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to indicate that something was focused on or given special attention in a statement or discussion. Here are some examples: - In the presentation, the emphasis was on the importance of teamwork. - The teacher's emphasis was on the need for students to practice regularly. - During the meeting, the emphasis was on finding a solution to the problem. - The article's emphasis was on the negative effects of social media on mental health. - In this essay, the emphasis was on analyzing the historical context of the artwork.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It seemed to show that the emphasis was on the platform, not just one device.

TechCrunch

"The emphasis was on agriculture".

The New York Times

His strongest emphasis was on public service.

The New York Times

The emphasis was on the word "small".

The New York Times - Magazine

But the main emphasis was on health.

The Guardian

The emphasis was on brilliance, intensity, punch.

The New York Times - Arts

But my emphasis was on the classical world".

The New York Times

The emphasis was on creating a learning community.

The Guardian

For Chongqing officials, the emphasis was on urbanization.

The New York Times

Much of her emphasis was on living in the moment.

The New York Times

But the emphasis was on the ordinary man, working.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "emphasis was on", ensure that the subject receiving the emphasis is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The emphasis was on," specify "The emphasis was on data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "emphasis was on" when discussing current or future priorities. This phrase indicates a past focus, so use "emphasis is on" or "emphasis will be on" for present and future contexts respectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emphasis was on" functions as a predicate nominative that identifies what received the most attention or importance. Ludwig AI shows that this construction is used to highlight priorities or central themes within a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "emphasis was on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that highlights a past focus or priority. According to Ludwig AI, its usage spans various contexts, predominantly in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, indicating its adaptability and clarity. The phrase functions as a predicate nominative, effectively pinpointing what received the most attention. When using this phrase, make sure to specify clearly what the emphasis was on to avoid ambiguity, and remember it refers to past priorities only. Alternatives like "focus was on" or "stress was on" can be used to convey similar meanings, each with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focus was on

Synonymous, but "focus" directly implies a point of concentration.

stress was on

"Stress" implies a stronger degree of importance or pressure.

accent was on

"Accent" suggests highlighting a particular aspect.

importance was given to

Rephrases to highlight active assignment of importance.

priority was given to

Rephrases to emphasize the act of prioritizing.

attention was directed toward

Suggests a conscious shift of focus.

significance was attached to

Indicates that something was deemed important.

particular attention was paid to

More detailed way of specifying focused consideration.

main thrust was

"Thrust" implies a driving force or direction.

primary concern was

Highlights the main worry or area of concern.

FAQs

How can I use "emphasis was on" in a sentence?

The phrase "emphasis was on" is used to indicate what was given particular importance or focus in the past. For instance, you could say, "During the project, the "emphasis was on" meeting deadlines."

What's the difference between "emphasis was on" and "emphasis is on"?

"Emphasis was on" refers to a past focus, while "emphasis is on" indicates a current focus. Use "emphasis was on" when discussing something that was prioritized in the past, and "emphasis is on" when referring to a current priority.

What can I say instead of "emphasis was on"?

Alternatives to "emphasis was on" include phrases like "focus was on", "stress was on", or "importance was given to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "emphasis was on the need for"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. This phrase clearly indicates that the importance or focus was directed toward addressing a particular need. For example, "The "emphasis was on" the need for better communication."