fixation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "fixation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word to refer to a preoccupation with a particular idea, interest, or activity. For example, "I had a fixation on musical theatre ever since I was a child."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is called the Stability and Growth Pact, stability representing the German fetish, growth describing the French fixation.

The Guardian

Since it is their familiar territory (London for the mega-rich fixation), I sense more Osborne/Johnson in it than serious Simon Rattle game-playing.

The Guardian - Music

His fixation led some to ask whether the real winner of this budget was indeed "the north", wherever that may be (certainly not Cumbria, as I will explain below).

The Guardian

While religious conservatives wring their hands in a gesture of concern, the black irony of the whole debacle is that their pathological fixation on sexuality stigmatises the very youth they ostensibly care for.

The Guardian

While Branson and Zeitz say there are many issues that need addressing, ranging from the need for greater transparency to redefining business education, the B Team begins with three challenges in a bid to turn business away from its fixation with short-term profit maximisation.

The Guardian

And all I've really done is sit at home and type out a series of badly observed almost-gags like a puerile 10-year-old with a poo fixation.

The Guardian

It's a fixation.

The Guardian

A senior Indian official talks of India having a legitimate interest because a Chinese "noose" is tightening on its friends and trading partners around the South China Sea.China's maritime fixation underscores the appeal of lessening worries over its terrestrial borders at least that is the argument that some make in Beijing for seeking an agreement on the disputed border.

The Economist

Prudish medieval Christians despised his detailed advice on the ins and outs of sex as "a cunning ploy to win converts", which undermine their own faith's fixation on virginity, chastity and monogamy.

The Economist

Red characters posted by their entrances still forlornly proclaim their "grand opening".Last year on a typically smoggy day in Beijing, Li Keqiang, the prime minister, declared "war" on air pollution a problem that has become a national fixation.

The Economist

Since September 11th, with Churchill's help, he has recruited it into his grand coalition against terrorism.Every politician worth his whisky is now quoting ChurchillMr Bush is not the only senior Republican with a Churchill fixation.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fixation", consider the intensity of the preoccupation you want to convey. Alternatives like "interest" or "fascination" may be more appropriate for less intense situations.

Common error

Avoid using "fixation" when "habit" is more accurate. "Fixation" implies a stronger, often irrational, focus, while "habit" simply refers to a routine behavior.

Linguistic Context

The noun "fixation" primarily functions as a descriptor of a state of mind characterized by an intense and often unwavering focus on a particular object, idea, or activity. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

28%

Science

26%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "fixation" is a grammatically sound noun denoting an intense preoccupation, as validated by Ludwig. Its usage spans across various contexts, notably in news, business, and scientific domains, indicating a broad applicability. While alternatives like "obsession" and "preoccupation" exist, "fixation" carries its unique connotation of focused attention. Common errors involve using it interchangeably with "habit", overlooking the intensity that "fixation" implies. Practical writing tips emphasize considering the intensity of the preoccupation to ensure accurate conveyance. Furthermore, Ludwig's examples show its usage in describing political, psychological, and even consumer behaviors, highlighting its versatility and the depth it adds to descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obsession

Emphasizes an intense and often irrational preoccupation.

preoccupation

Suggests a state of being mentally engrossed in something.

compulsion

Highlights an irresistible urge to perform a specific act.

mania

Implies an extreme enthusiasm or craze for something.

fascination

Indicates a strong interest or attraction.

infatuation

Suggests a foolish or extravagant passion or love.

enthralment

Emphasizes being captivated or charmed.

absorption

Highlights a state of being completely engrossed.

craze

Implies a widespread but short-lived enthusiasm.

monomania

Indicates a pathological obsession with one thing.

FAQs

How to use "fixation" in a sentence?

Use "fixation" to describe an obsessive interest or preoccupation with something. For example, "His "fixation" on vintage cars consumed all his free time".

What can I say instead of "fixation"?

You can use alternatives like "obsession", "preoccupation", or "compulsion" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "fixation on" or "fixation with"?

"Fixation on" and "fixation with" are both correct, although "fixation on" is slightly more common. Both prepositions indicate the object of the "fixation".

What's the difference between "fixation" and "obsession"?

While similar, "obsession" suggests a more severe and uncontrollable preoccupation than ""fixation"". Obsession often implies anxiety or distress if the object of obsession is not attainable.