unhealthy obsession

USAGE SUMMARY

"unhealthy obsession" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe an excessive and compulsive interest in something that is harmful or dangerous. For example, "He had an unhealthy obsession with getting the perfect body."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I have an unhealthy obsession".

The New York Times - Tech

The unhealthy obsession is pitiful.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There is an unhealthy obsession with Jews and power.

The New Yorker

At what point does it become an unhealthy obsession?

The Guardian - Sport

"I have an unhealthy obsession with sheep," Monbiot writes.

The Guardian - Books

We'd monitor available parking spaces with an unhealthy obsession.

The New York Times

I have an unhealthy obsession with that man and his work.

Independent

Once it has overcome its unhealthy obsession with short-term share prices, how will Beijing respond?

The Guardian - Business

But America's unhealthy obsession with guns threatens to tear it apart.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We are," he underscores, "people with an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating".

The New York Times - Books

Gambon also defined Eddie's unhealthy obsession with his niece, Catherine, through precise physical actions.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unhealthy obsession", ensure the context clearly indicates the negative consequences or potential harm associated with the obsessive behavior or interest. The phrase is most effective when the detrimental effects are evident.

Common error

Don't use "unhealthy obsession" to describe simple hobbies or strong preferences. Reserve it for situations where the interest genuinely interferes with well-being, relationships, or daily functioning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unhealthy obsession" functions as a noun phrase, where "unhealthy" modifies the noun "obsession". It commonly acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state or behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes excessive interest.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unhealthy obsession" is a commonly used phrase to describe a detrimental, excessive interest in something. Ludwig AI identifies its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to highlight the negative impacts of an intense interest. While grammatically sound and frequently used, caution should be exercised to avoid exaggerating mild interests. Alternatives such as "morbid preoccupation" or "obsessive compulsion" can be used to convey similar meanings depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crippling obsession

This alternative stresses the disabling or paralyzing effect of the obsession.

detrimental fixation

Highlights the harm or damage caused by the obsession.

obsessive compulsion

This phrase highlights the compulsive nature of the obsession, emphasizing the irresistible urge associated with it.

injurious preoccupation

Indicates that the preoccupation is causing harm or damage.

uncontrollable fixation

Focuses on the lack of control over the obsession.

pathological preoccupation

This alternative suggests a medical or psychological condition, indicating a more serious and problematic obsession.

obsessive infatuation

This phrase implies a foolish or unreasonable attachment.

morbid preoccupation

This alternative suggests a disturbing or gruesome focus, shifting the tone to something more sinister.

fixated interest

This phrase is a slightly milder alternative, toning down the negativity while still conveying a strong focus.

consuming passion

This emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of the interest, suggesting it dominates one's thoughts and actions but can be good if the passion is for something positive.

FAQs

How can I use "unhealthy obsession" in a sentence?

You can use "unhealthy obsession" to describe someone's excessive interest or focus on something that is detrimental to their well-being. For example, "His "unhealthy obsession" with work led to burnout".

What phrases are similar to "unhealthy obsession"?

Similar phrases include "morbid preoccupation", "obsessive compulsion", or "crippling obsession". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to have an obsession?

While "obsession" itself isn't always negative, "unhealthy obsession" specifically implies a detrimental impact. A regular passion or interest is usually positive until it crosses a line to cause you distress.

When should I use "unhealthy obsession" instead of "strong interest"?

Use "unhealthy obsession" when the interest is consuming, causes distress or negative consequences, and interferes with other aspects of life. "Strong interest" is more appropriate for describing a passionate but balanced hobby.