to focus on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to focus on something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that someone should pay attention to a specific topic or issue. Example: "In this meeting, we need to focus on the budget proposal for the upcoming year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now, analysts say, Mr. Forrester's campaign will have to focus on something entirely different.

The New York Times

Everybody seems to focus on something different.

Princeton University

Just to focus on something else".

The Guardian - Books

A. Everybody seems to focus on something different.

Princeton University

Sept. 11 gave him the excuse to focus on something".

The New York Times

It allowed him to focus on something crucial in each portrait: the eyes.

The New York Times

"Now they need to get them to focus on something else".

The New York Times

"I dove into entrepreneurship and decided to focus on something I love: ice cream," Fisher says.

Stanford University

Start by giving the difficult person a way to focus on something besides themselves.

University of California, Berkeley

But I think it helped to focus on something other than my illness.

The Guardian - Opinion

I think it nearly always helps to focus on something other than your illness.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to focus on something", ensure that the 'something' is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "We need to focus on something," specify "We need to focus on the budget.".

Common error

Avoid using "to focus on something" when the object of focus is not well-defined or is too broad. This can lead to a lack of direction and inefficiency. Instead, break down the broad focus into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to focus on something" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as part of a larger clause to express the action of directing attention or effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to focus on something" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to convey the act of directing attention or effort. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. It is commonly found in "News & Media", "Wiki", and "Academia", signifying its relevance in both formal and informal communications. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the object of focus is well-defined to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "to concentrate on something" or "to prioritize something" to fine-tune the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to concentrate on something

Implies a deeper level of mental effort and sustained attention compared to "focus".

to zero in on something

Suggests a precise and targeted focus, often after a broader search.

to turn one's attention to something

Emphasizes the act of redirecting focus from one thing to another.

to emphasize something

Highlights the importance or prominence of a particular aspect.

to prioritize something

Indicates that something is being given greater importance or attention than other things.

to dedicate oneself to something

Signifies a committed and sustained focus, often involving personal effort.

to highlight something

Draws attention to a specific aspect, making it more noticeable or important.

to address something

Implies actively dealing with or giving attention to a specific issue or problem.

to underline something

Similar to highlight, but suggests reinforcing or emphasizing a point.

to fixate on something

Implies an excessive or obsessive level of focus, potentially to a detrimental extent.

FAQs

How can I use "to focus on something" in a sentence?

You can use "to focus on something" to indicate directing attention or effort toward a particular subject or task. For example, "It's important "to focus on something" positive during difficult times".

What are some alternatives to "to focus on something"?

Alternatives include "to concentrate on something", "to emphasize something", or "to prioritize something", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "focus on something" or "focus into something"?

"Focus on something" is generally the correct and more common usage. "Focus into something" might be appropriate in specific, technical contexts but is less common in everyday language.

What's the difference between "to focus on something" and "to dwell on something"?

"To focus on something" implies directing attention in a neutral or positive way, while "to dwell on something" suggests lingering on a thought or feeling, often negative or problematic. For example, you might "focus on a solution", but "dwell on a problem".