focus on

USAGE SUMMARY

"focus on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to tell someone to direct their attention to or concentrate on something or someone. For example, "Focus on the task at hand and you'll be sure to finish it before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Focus on that.

The New York Times

Focus on her departure.

The New York Times

"Focus on the positives.

Independent

"Focus on what matters".

Independent

Focus on the fundamentals.

The New York Times

Instead, "focus on process".

The New York Times

Focus on Management.

Forbes

"Focus on the work.

Science Magazine

Focus on the economy.

Science Magazine

Focus on success.

Science Magazine

Focus on your achievements.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "focus on", ensure the object of your focus is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Don't just say "focus on success"; specify what actions or strategies will lead to success. Being specific makes your advice actionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focus on" functions primarily as a directive, urging the listener or reader to direct their attention or effort towards a specific object, goal, or action. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to tell someone to direct their attention or concentrate on something or someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

44%

News & Media

25%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "focus on" is a very common and grammatically correct directive used to guide attention and effort. Ludwig AI confirms its usability for directing attention or concentration. Predominantly found in Wiki and News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. To maximize its impact, ensure the object of focus is clear and specific. Related phrases like "concentrate on" or "emphasize" offer nuanced alternatives, enriching your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrate on

Uses a different verb with a very similar meaning, emphasizing mental effort.

pay attention to

A more general phrase indicating attentiveness to something.

emphasize

Highlights the importance of something, suggesting it should receive more attention.

direct your attention to

A more formal way of asking someone to focus on something.

highlight

Similar to emphasize, but often used to draw attention to a specific detail.

zero in on

Suggests a precise and targeted focus, often after a broader search.

prioritize

Indicates that something is being given precedence over other things.

stress the importance of

Emphasizes the significance of something, urging others to pay attention.

center around

Implies that something is the main subject or point of interest.

keep in mind

Advises someone to remember or consider something important.

FAQs

How to use "focus on" in a sentence?

You can use "focus on" to direct attention or effort towards something specific. For instance, "focus on the task" means to concentrate your efforts on completing that particular task.

What can I say instead of "focus on"?

You can use alternatives like "concentrate on", "emphasize", or "pay attention to" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "focus on" or "focusing on"?

Both "focus on" and "focusing on" are correct, but they serve different grammatical functions. "Focus on" is an imperative or a general instruction, while "focusing on" is a continuous action or part of a larger verb phrase. For example, "He is "focusing on" his studies."

What's the difference between "focus on" and "concentrate on"?

While similar, "focus on" is a more general term for directing attention. "Concentrate on" often implies a more intense and sustained mental effort.