obsessing over

USAGE SUMMARY

"obsessing over" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe an activity or task that is occupying someone's thoughts or feelings to the exclusion of other matters. For example, "John was obsessing over the details of the project, trying to ensure that it was perfect in every way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Also, this Traditional Bilberry Pie recipe is worth obsessing over!

Forbes

Obsessing over small details can sometimes make all the difference.

Huffington Post

Now I'm obsessing over saltwater.

The New York Times

He "kept obsessing over it," Laura said.

The New Yorker

"I waste time obsessing over meaningless garbage.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We are not obsessing over him.

The Guardian - Sport

I began obsessing over my child's schoolwork.

The New York Times

Conservatives can't stop obsessing over Ocasio-Cortez.

The Washington Post

But second, we are obsessing over the wrong things.

Independent

(A key scene shows Hitler obsessing over the Basterds).

The New Yorker

That's what you get for obsessing over M. Night Shyamalan.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obsessing over", consider the intensity of the focus you want to convey. Choose alternative phrases if the situation requires a less intense description.

Common error

Avoid using "obsessing over" when a healthy level of focus or dedication is intended. Instead, use phrases like "focusing on" or "dedicated to" to convey a more positive and balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obsessing over" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of thinking about something constantly or to an excessive degree. Ludwig shows that this phrase commonly indicates an unhealthy preoccupation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

23%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obsessing over" is a common phrase used to describe an excessive preoccupation with something. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media. While it's a valid phrase, it often carries a negative connotation, so be mindful of the intended intensity and potential alternatives like "fixating on" or "preoccupied with". Remember to use it appropriately to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fixating on

Emphasizes a focused attention, possibly to an excessive degree.

preoccupied with

Highlights that one's mind is largely taken up by a particular subject.

consumed by

Suggests that something is taking up all of one's time and energy.

absorbed in

Implies a deep level of immersion and concentration.

dwelling on

Focuses on the act of repeatedly thinking about something, often negatively.

ruminating about

Indicates a deep and often anxious consideration of something.

caught up in

Suggests that someone has become very involved or interested in something.

brooding over

Emphasizes a state of deep unhappiness and persistent thought about something.

thinking incessantly about

Highlights the constant and continuous nature of the thought process.

overthinking

Emphasizes thinking about something too much or for too long.

FAQs

How can I use "obsessing over" in a sentence?

You can use "obsessing over" to describe someone who is excessively preoccupied with something. For example, "She was obsessing over the details of the presentation."

What's the difference between "obsessing over" and "focusing on"?

"Obsessing over" implies an unhealthy level of preoccupation, while "focusing on" suggests a healthy level of concentration and attention.

What are some alternatives to "obsessing over"?

Alternatives to "obsessing over" include "fixating on", "preoccupied with", or "consumed by" depending on the intensity you want to convey.

Is "obsessing over" a negative term?

Yes, "obsessing over" generally carries a negative connotation, suggesting an excessive and potentially unhealthy preoccupation with something.