focus closely on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "focus closely on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of paying attention to a specific detail or subject. Example: "In this analysis, we will focus closely on the impact of climate change on coastal cities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Since cell phones show no signs of going away - indeed, most American children today face a lifetime of exposure - it's vital to focus closely on the most recently published studies, the ones that show the effects of longer-term exposure.

HuffPost

So Mr. Shelden's decision to focus closely on the elderly Twain is unusual.

The New York Times - Books

And all the more reason to focus closely on executive pay restrictions at any bank that receives TARP funding.

The New York Times

He is therefore almost certain to focus closely on how Andersen supervises its auditors, according to the people who have talked with him.

The New York Times

It urges judges to issue opinions that focus closely on the particular circumstances of the case at hand, steering clear of sweeping pronouncements about liberty, equality or justice.

The New York Times - Magazine

Dr. Hanlon, who will be the 10th Dartmouth graduate to become its president, said he expected to focus closely on the college's cost structure and finances.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The earlier #MeToo negotiations were focussed closely on individual cases.

The New Yorker

Focuses closely on the constitutional text and Supreme Court case law.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It focusses closely on the paratroopers and not on the massive, wondrous Wall.

The New Yorker

After all, their work focuses closely on the crucial period when the Great Leap Forward is supposed to have occurred.

The Guardian

Attention is the act of focusing closely on a given context to understand its dynamics and latent needs.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "focus closely on" when you want to emphasize the need for careful and detailed attention to a specific subject or task. It conveys a sense of thoroughness and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "focus closely on" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "pay close attention to" or "concentrate intently on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focus closely on" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of directing one's attention with precision and detail. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "focus closely on" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey the act of giving careful and detailed attention. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's commonly found in News & Media, Science and Academia contexts, with a neutral to formal tone. While the phrase is usable in different situations, be mindful of overusing it and consider using synonyms such as "pay close attention to" or "concentrate intently on" to maintain variety in your writing. It is important to emphasize the need for careful and detailed attention to a specific subject or task. The expert rating reflects its proper use and meaning across reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrate intently on

Replaces "focus" with "concentrate" and "closely" with "intently", intensifying the level of attention.

pay close attention to

Uses a more common expression to convey the same meaning of giving careful consideration.

zero in on

Idiomatic phrase that suggests narrowing the focus to a specific point.

home in on

Similar to "zero in on", indicating a precise and targeted focus.

major on

Suggests giving primary importance or attention to something.

emphasize strongly

Highlights the act of giving something prominence.

prioritize meticulously

Implies a careful and thorough process of setting priorities.

scrutinize carefully

Focuses on detailed examination and analysis.

zoom in on

Emphasizes magnifying specific details.

consider intently

Replacing focus with consider and closely with intently implies thoughtful contemplation.

FAQs

What does "focus closely on" mean?

The phrase "focus closely on" means to give careful and detailed attention to something. It implies a deliberate effort to concentrate on a particular aspect or subject.

What can I say instead of "focus closely on"?

You can use alternatives like "pay close attention to", "concentrate intently on", or "zero in on" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "focus closely"?

While "focus" itself implies attention, "focus closely" emphasizes the degree of attention required. It's not strictly redundant, but consider whether the added emphasis is necessary for your writing.

How do I use "focus closely on" in a sentence?

You can use "focus closely on" by following it with the subject that needs careful attention. For example, "The study will focus closely on the effects of the new policy".