focused on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "focused on something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that attention or concentration is directed towards a specific topic or issue. Example: "The team is focused on improving customer satisfaction this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yet, with all the recent sports scandals rocking the country, I find myself focused on something entirely different.

Huffington Post

When he gets focused on something, look out".

The New York Times - Sports

Most of all, though, their efforts focused on something more difficult to quantify.

The New York Times

A woman is laughing, head tossed back, focused on something over her right shoulder.

Independent

But for South Africans, their hearts, if not their eyes, were focused on something else.

The New York Times

We, those out in the war, are intensely focused on something we're very proficient at.

The New York Times

The brain doesn't like being still and being focused on something as mundane as your breath.

The Guardian

It has a grounding effect, and now she is focused on something positive.

The New York Times

But some apparently were focused on something much more basic: drawing breath on Jan . 1

The New York Times

But in this case, they are focused on something quite different: new entrances to a subway station.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I focus on this," Bubka said of the I.O.C. "I'm not focused on something else".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "focused on something", ensure that the 'something' is clearly defined and relevant to the context. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "focused on something" in excessively passive constructions, as it can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Instead, opt for active voice where appropriate to convey a stronger sense of agency and purpose. For example, instead of 'The project was focused on cost reduction', try 'The project team focused on reducing costs'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focused on something" functions as a verb phrase acting as an adjective. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating the direction of attention, effort, or concentration. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "focused on something" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate directed attention or effort. With Ludwig's analysis, it's clear that its use spans various contexts, from academia to news media. While highly common, it's important to ensure the 'something' is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Remember, while alternatives like "concentrating on" or "intent on" exist, "focused on something" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. Pay attention to potentially weak passive constructions and use the active voice when possible. Thanks to Ludwig, you're now well-equipped to use this phrase effectively!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrating on something

This alternative emphasizes the mental effort of directing one's thoughts towards something.

engrossed in something

This phrase suggests a deeper level of immersion and absorption in the subject.

absorbed in something

Similar to 'engrossed', but can also imply a passive state of being completely taken in by something.

intent on something

Highlights the determination and purpose behind the focus.

preoccupied with something

Indicates that one's thoughts are mainly or excessively occupied with a particular matter.

dedicated to something

Suggests a commitment and devoted effort towards a specific goal or cause.

fixated on something

Implies an obsessive or unhealthy level of focus.

occupied with something

Indicates that one's time or attention is being used or taken up by a particular thing.

attentive to something

Emphasizes careful observation and listening.

geared towards something

Implies that actions or plans are specifically designed to achieve a certain outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "focused on something" in a sentence?

You can use "focused on something" to indicate that someone or something is directing their attention or efforts towards a specific goal or subject. For example, "The company is "focused on improving" customer satisfaction".

What are some alternatives to "focused on something"?

Alternatives include "concentrating on something", "intent on something", or "absorbed in something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "focused on something" or "focused with something"?

"Focused on something" is the correct and more common usage. "Focused with something" is not standard English.

What does it mean to be "focused on something bigger than yourself"?

It means to be dedicated to a cause or goal that benefits others or has a wider impact beyond personal gain. It suggests a sense of purpose and altruism.