focusing intently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "focusing intently" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone who is concentrating deeply on a task or subject. Example: "She was focusing intently on her studies, determined to ace the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Students sat at tables focusing intently on laptops or open books.

The New York Times

By focusing intently on primary care and preventive services, they save tremendous amounts of money.

The New York Times

Does he bark at judges to seduce them into focusing intently on him?

The New York Times - Sports

The mind filters out the overwhelming majority of chemical aromas that surround us, focusing intently on some, ignoring others.

The Guardian - Books

Utilities are gearing up to cooperate with the automakers, a first for the two industries, and governments on the West Coast are focusing intently on the coming issues.

The New York Times

Ms. Lagarde has been focusing intently on her candidacy in recent days, a French government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said on Tuesday.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

If you focus intently enough on something, it will happen.

The New York Times

Conversations in line focused intently on the choice ahead.

The New York Times

The younger women appeared to be focussing intently.

The New Yorker

"Yeah," Marcey said, focussing intently on her feet.

The New Yorker

"The U.S. focused intently on the region for that.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "focusing intently" when you want to emphasize a high degree of concentration and purpose. It's stronger than simply "focusing".

Common error

While "focusing intently" is a strong phrase, avoid using it repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "concentrating deeply" or "paying close attention" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "focusing intently" functions as a gerund phrase, often used adjectivally or adverbially to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "focusing intently" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a state of deep concentration and deliberate effort. Ludwig AI's analysis and the numerous examples confirm that it is most frequently found in News & Media contexts, indicating a neutral register suitable for a wide range of writing. While versatile, it is important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like ""concentrating deeply"" or ""paying close attention"" for variety. Overall, "focusing intently" is a reliable and effective phrase when conveying strong concentration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concentrating deeply

Emphasizes the depth of concentration, similar to focusing intently.

paying close attention

Highlights the act of giving careful attention, a slightly broader meaning.

fixed attention

Implies a more rigid or unwavering focus.

absorbed completely

Suggests being fully engrossed, often losing track of surroundings.

engrossed fully

Highlights the depth of being engaged in something, very similar in meaning.

riveted firmly

Suggests an unwavering and unshakeable focus on an object or subject.

single-minded devotion

Emphasizes dedication and purpose alongside focus.

laser-like focus

Implies a highly precise and targeted form of concentration.

determined effort

Highlights the deliberate and purposeful aspect of concentrating.

giving undivided attention

Emphasizes that full attention is dedicated and provided.

FAQs

How can I use "focusing intently" in a sentence?

You can use "focusing intently" to describe someone concentrating hard on something, for example, "She was "focusing intently" on her studies before the exam".

What are some alternatives to "focusing intently"?

Alternatives include "concentrating deeply", "paying close attention", or "absorbed completely", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "focusing intently" and "focusing intensely"?

While similar, "intently" suggests a focused purpose or deliberate action, while "intensely" implies a high degree of emotion or passion. Choose the word that best fits the context. For example, focusing intently on your work versus intensely feeling the excitement of winning the lottery.

When is it appropriate to use "focusing intently" in writing?

"Focusing intently" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing when you want to emphasize a deliberate and concentrated effort. News articles, academic papers, and even informal blog posts can all benefit from this phrase if used correctly.