fixated on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fixated on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to showing extreme focus on a particular topic or issue. For example: "He was fixated on the success of his business and wouldn't entertain any other ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Over eyes fixated on digital conversations, instead of spoken ones.

TechCrunch

"He's fixated on money.

The New Yorker

They're fixated on vehicles.

The New York Times - Arts

He's fixated on hands.

The New Yorker

Some fixated on soundbites.

The Guardian - Sport

"He was fixated on the Love Parade.

The New York Times

"I was fixated on talking to him".

The New York Times

We are fixated on seizing the day.

The New York Times - Magazine

No, he was fixated on Billy Bunter.

Independent

Thirty years ago they fixated on Japan.

The Economist

Blagojevich was also fixated on Richard Nixon.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fixated on" to convey a sense of intense focus, often implying that the focus is perhaps excessive or obsessive. Be mindful of the connotation when choosing this phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "fixated on" repeatedly in your writing, as it can make your language sound repetitive. Instead, vary your word choice by using synonyms like "focused on", "preoccupied with", or "absorbed in" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fixated on" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate a state of intense focus or preoccupation. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests a strong concentration on a particular topic or issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fixated on" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that describes a state of intense focus or preoccupation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is versatile, it often carries a connotation of excessive or obsessive focus, influencing its overall tone. Examples from news sources, such as The New York Times and The Guardian, demonstrate its widespread use in describing various subjects and their concentration. When using "fixated on", be aware of the subtle differences between similar phrases like "focused on" or "obsessed with" to ensure your writing conveys the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused on

Indicates a strong concentration of attention or effort, similar to 'fixated on' but often less intense.

preoccupied with

Implies that someone's thoughts are mainly occupied by a particular matter, overlapping with 'fixated on'.

preoccupied by

Suggests being largely or wholly occupied in thought or consideration, which overlaps semantically with 'fixated on'.

obsessed with

Suggests an excessive and often irrational preoccupation, stronger than 'fixated on'.

engrossed in

Suggests being completely absorbed in something, similar to 'fixated on' in its intensity.

absorbed in

Indicates being deeply involved or engaged in something, implying some overlap with 'fixated on'.

riveted on

Captures the sense of being completely held by something visually or mentally, akin to 'fixated on'.

consumed by

Indicates that something takes up all of one's time and energy, a more extreme form of 'fixated on'.

hung up on

Suggests being overly concerned or worried about something, differing slightly from 'fixated on' in its connotation.

stuck on

Implies an inability to move past a certain idea or point, a less intense version of 'fixated on'.

FAQs

How can I use "fixated on" in a sentence?

You can use "fixated on" to describe someone's intense focus on something, such as, "He was "fixated on" completing the project before the deadline."

What's the difference between "focused on" and "fixated on"?

"Focused on" generally implies a deliberate and productive concentration, whereas ""fixated on"" suggests an obsessive or perhaps unhealthy level of attention.

Are there any negative connotations associated with "fixated on"?

Yes, ""fixated on"" often carries a negative connotation, implying that the focus is excessive, obsessive, or even detrimental.

What are some alternatives to using "fixated on"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "focused on", "preoccupied with", or "engrossed in".