focus on this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'focus on this' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to draw someone's attention to something specific. For example, "Please focus on this point and consider it carefully when making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Do the numbers justify the focus on this one island?

The Guardian

Keep your focus on this one thing.

WikiHow

"Republicans have not shifted focus on this.

The New York Times

So, I will focus on this.

The New York Times

"I'd rather focus on this".

The New Yorker

Why such focus on this pointless rhetoric?

The Guardian - Opinion

Why focus on this good soldier?

The Guardian - Books

"We're just trying to focus on this".

The New York Times - Sports

"Now we can focus on this idea".

The New York Times - Arts

However, few reports focus on this motif.

Carbon

Focus on this nutrition issue instead.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "focus on this" in writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what "this" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader. For example, instead of "Focus on this", say "Focus on this key finding".

Common error

Avoid using "focus on this" repeatedly in a short span. It can sound repetitive and diminish the impact. Vary your language by using synonyms like "consider this", "emphasize this", or "pay attention to this".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focus on this" primarily functions as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to direct their attention to a specific subject or point. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

38%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "focus on this" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile expression used to direct attention and emphasize specific points. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and common usage across a range of contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific sources, suggesting a neutral to professional register. While straightforward, it's essential to provide clear context for "this" to avoid ambiguity, and overuse should be avoided to maintain impact. Alternatives like "concentrate on this" or "emphasize this point" can add variety. The phrase serves as a crucial tool for clear communication, prompting listeners and readers to prioritize key information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrate on this

Replaces "focus" with "concentrate", offering a slightly more formal tone while retaining the core meaning.

emphasize this point

Shifts the focus to highlighting a specific aspect or argument, using "emphasize" to indicate importance.

highlight this aspect

Similar to "emphasize this point", but uses "highlight" to suggest drawing attention to a particular feature.

pay attention to this

Offers a more direct and slightly less formal way of urging someone to focus.

consider this carefully

Encourages deep thought and evaluation of the subject at hand, moving beyond mere attention.

bear this in mind

Suggests remembering and taking into account the information being presented.

take this into account

Similar to "bear this in mind", emphasizing the consideration of a particular fact or detail.

give this your attention

A slightly more polite and indirect way of asking someone to focus.

turn your attention here

Directs the listener or reader to shift their concentration to the indicated subject.

zero in on this

Implies a precise and targeted concentration, like adjusting a lens for clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "focus on this" in a sentence?

You can use "focus on this" to direct attention to a specific point or subject. For example, "During the meeting, the team was asked to "focus on this" quarter's financial reports."

What's a more formal alternative to "focus on this"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "concentrate on this", "emphasize this point", or "highlight this aspect".

Is it correct to say "focus on these" instead of "focus on this"?

Yes, "focus on these" is correct when referring to multiple items. "Focus on this" is used for a singular item, while "focus on these" is for plural items. For instance, "Focus on these recommendations as you proceed".

What's the difference between "focus on this" and "focus on it"?

"Focus on this" is often used when introducing something new or immediately present. "Focus on it" is generally used when referring back to something already mentioned. For example, "We discussed the budget; now, "focus on it" as you plan your expenses."