sharp focus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharp focus" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that is very clear and well-defined in the mind or in the view. For example, "He maintained a sharp focus on his goal and never wavered from it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The time change also threw the day into sharp focus.

The New York Times

That kind of stability is critical for sharp focus.

The New York Times

A sharp focus will be on the economy.

The Economist

A crisis brings all those tensions into sharp focus.

The New York Times

These contradictions will now come into sharp focus.

The New York Times

More recently, the consequences have come into painfully sharp focus.

The New Yorker

Nor are political and diplomatic questions in sharp focus yet.

The New York Times

"He's trying to put a sharp focus on the issue".

The New York Times

That throws the authenticity of company messaging into sharp focus.

The Guardian

Most important, the food is coming into sharp focus.

The New York Times - Food

Two new reports have thrown the issue into sharp focus.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharp focus" to emphasize clarity and precision. This is especially effective in analytical writing or when describing strategic priorities.

Common error

Avoid using "sharp focus" when the subject lacks a clearly defined or significant element. The phrase loses its impact if applied to trivial or undefined topics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp focus" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It indicates the state of something being clear, well-defined, or intensely concentrated upon. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sharp focus" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that signifies clarity, precision, and intentional concentration. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and appropriate for a wide range of contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While alternatives like "intense focus" or "keen attention" exist, "sharp focus" uniquely emphasizes a clear, well-defined perspective. Remember to use it in contexts where clarity is paramount and avoid overuse in vague situations to maintain its impactful effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong focus

Emphasizes the strength and intensity of the concentration.

intensive focus

Highlights the degree of concentration or attention.

pointed focus

Conveys a deliberate and directed nature of the focus.

incisive focus

Highlights the penetrating and precise nature of the focus.

substantial focus

Suggests a considerable amount of attention or emphasis.

sudden focus

Emphasizes the abruptness with which focus is achieved.

notable focus

Indicates the focus is worthy of being noted or significant.

potent focus

Stresses the effectiveness and impact of the focus.

sharp spotlight

Uses a metaphor to indicate intense and direct attention.

vertiginous focus

Implies a dizzying intensity of focus.

FAQs

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

You can use "sharp focus" to indicate a clear and well-defined understanding or emphasis on something. For example, "The time change also threw the day into "sharp focus"." or "A "sharp focus" will be on the economy."

What's the difference between "sharp focus" and "strong focus"?

"Sharp focus" emphasizes clarity and definition, while "strong focus" emphasizes the intensity and concentration of attention. While related, "sharp focus" suggests a clear image or understanding, while "strong focus" implies a determined effort.

What can I say instead of "sharp focus"?

Alternatives to "sharp focus" include "intense focus", "keen attention", or "clear emphasis", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sharp focus" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "sharp focus" is appropriate for formal writing. It is frequently used in news, business, and academic contexts to denote clarity and precision. Its usage is well-supported by authoritative sources.