tunnel vision

USAGE SUMMARY

"tunnel vision" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe a situation in which someone has a narrow focus and is unable to consider other options or perspectives. For example, "The CEO's tunnel vision meant the company was unprepared for the changes in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tunnel Vision.

The New York Times - Travel

Cultivate tunnel vision.

Independent

I get tunnel vision.

The New York Times

"It was tunnel vision completely".

The New York Times - Sports

Why the tunnel vision?

The Guardian - Opinion

Cubicles triggered tunnel vision.

The New York Times

"He had tunnel vision," Mr. Holder said.

The New York Times

Is there tunnel vision at work?

Independent

He's straight tunnel vision, screw 'em!

The New Yorker

However, Moon had tunnel vision.

The Guardian - Sport

But I had tunnel vision.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tunnel vision" to critique a decision-making process that overlooks crucial factors. For instance, "The project failed because the team suffered from "tunnel vision", ignoring early warning signs."

Common error

Avoid using "tunnel vision" to describe positive determination or focus. "Tunnel vision" typically carries a negative connotation, suggesting a harmful lack of awareness. Instead, use terms like "dedication" or "focus" to describe positive single-mindedness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tunnel vision" functions primarily as a noun, often used to describe a cognitive state or a behavioral pattern. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating a restricted or narrow perspective. Ludwig's examples shows that it can be used to express criticism.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Tunnel vision" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a narrow or limited perspective. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media contexts. The phrase serves to criticize a limited viewpoint or warn against the dangers of focusing too narrowly. While "tunnel vision" itself is neutral in register, its connotation is typically negative, highlighting potential oversights. When writing, be mindful of this negative connotation and consider alternative terms such as "narrow focus" or "limited perspective" if a more neutral tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

narrow focus

This alternative emphasizes the limited scope of attention.

limited perspective

This highlights the restricted viewpoint.

one-track mind

This suggests a singular focus, excluding other considerations.

fixed mindset

This implies an inability to adapt or consider alternative viewpoints.

myopic view

This uses "myopic" as in nearsighted, metaphorically limiting one's vision.

single-mindedness

This indicates a strong, unwavering focus on one goal.

lack of perspective

This points out the absence of a broader understanding.

limited understanding

This focuses on the incomplete grasp of a situation.

obsessive focus

Suggests a concentrated attention that might be unhealthy or disproportionate.

restricted outlook

Emphasizes constraints on one's ability to see the bigger picture.

FAQs

How to use "tunnel vision" in a sentence?

You can use "tunnel vision" to describe a situation where someone is so focused on one thing that they fail to see other important aspects. For example, "The company's "tunnel vision" /s/led+to led to them missing critical market trends."

What can I say instead of "tunnel vision"?

You can use alternatives like "narrow focus", "limited perspective", or "one-track mind" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "tunnel vision" or "tunnel visioned"?

"Tunnel vision" is the correct noun phrase. "Tunnel visioned" is not a standard or widely accepted term.

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

"Tunnel vision" implies a negative consequence of excessive focus, where surrounding information is ignored. "Focus", on the other hand, generally describes a positive concentration without the implication of neglecting other relevant factors.