narrow focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrow focus" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to an attention to detail or to describe something that has a limited scope. For example: "He was able to develop a solution to the complex problem with his narrow focus on the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Such a narrow focus seems perverse.

The Guardian - Books

Shoes seemed such a narrow focus".

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Simpson attempts to compensate for the show's narrow focus.

The New York Times - Arts

City's own reflections will have a narrow focus.

The Guardian - Sport

Or does a narrow focus mean a better executed dish?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Stern's work and her background have a narrow focus.

The New Yorker

But they have been criticised for their narrow focus.

The Guardian

His series had a "narrow focus on western art".

The Guardian - Arts

Yet this is somewhat paradoxical given the narrow focus here.

The New York Times - Arts

This narrow focus on bribery is intellectually dishonest.

The New York Times

"The biggest problem that Twitter has is its narrow focus.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "narrow focus", ensure the context clarifies whether this focus is beneficial (e.g., for detailed analysis) or detrimental (e.g., missing the bigger picture).

Common error

Avoid using "narrow focus" without acknowledging the potential trade-offs. Be sure to acknowledge the broader context and implications to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow focus" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically describes the scope or extent of attention, investigation, or analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrow focus" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a limited scope of attention or investigation. Ludwig AI confirms this, and provides numerous examples across various contexts. While a "narrow focus" can be beneficial for detailed analysis, it's important to consider its potential limitations, as highlighted in the writing guidance. Alternatives like "limited scope" or "restricted perspective" can be used depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey. Remember to provide sufficient context to clarify whether the "narrow focus" is advantageous or disadvantageous.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Limited scope

Emphasizes the restricted range or extent of something.

Restricted perspective

Highlights the limited viewpoint or outlook.

Confined viewpoint

Implies a limited and enclosed perspective.

Limited attention

Focuses on the restricted amount of attention given to something.

Specific emphasis

Indicates a particular and limited area of focus.

Particular concentration

Suggests a focused and limited area of concentration.

Circumscribed attention

Highlights that the attention is well-defined and limited.

Selective interest

Suggests a choice has been made to focus on one thing and not others.

Singular focus

Emphasizes the single-mindedness and exclusivity of the focus.

Restricted field of vision

Highlights the limitation in what is visible or considered.

FAQs

How can I use "narrow focus" in a sentence?

You can use "narrow focus" to describe a specific or limited area of attention. For example: "The study's "narrow focus" on urban populations limited its generalizability."

What are some alternatives to using "narrow focus"?

You can use alternatives like "limited scope", "restricted perspective", or "specific emphasis" depending on the context.

Is a "narrow focus" always a bad thing?

Not necessarily. A "narrow focus" can be beneficial when deep analysis or specialization is required. However, it can be detrimental if it leads to overlooking important broader considerations.

What's the difference between "narrow focus" and "tunnel vision"?

"Narrow focus" generally refers to a specific or limited area of attention, while "tunnel vision" implies an extreme and often detrimental lack of awareness of anything outside that narrow area. "Tunnel vision" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting inflexibility or poor decision-making.