Synonyms for

Focus

Verb / ˈfəʊkʌs / / ˈfəʊkɪs / Another word for focus — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To concentrate on something and give it your full attention.

Synonyms & similar words

concenter sharpen focalise pore centering focussing focalize rivet center focalpoint direction stress concentre blur nidus centre concentrate focusing concentrate center direct aim fixate target pursue occupy engross immerse absorb attend

Synonyms by register

Formal

concentrate center direct intensify

Informal

zero in lock onto pay attention

Literary

attend hearken

Antonyms

distract neglect ignore disregard scatter divert

Common collocations

  • focus on
  • focus attention
  • focus group
  • focus point
  • focus lens
  • focus shift
  • focus inward

Word family

noun focus
verb focus
adjective focused
adverb focusedly

Usage note

The word 'focus' is often used with the preposition 'on' to indicate the object of attention. It can also be used transitively, as in 'focus your efforts'.

Example sentences

  1. I need to focus on my homework.
  2. She couldn't focus because of the noise.
  3. He had to focus to make the basket.
  4. The camera was focused on the bird.
  5. I can't focus when I'm hungry.

Quotes

  • The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus. - Bruce Lee
  • The most important thing is to be focused and to be ready for what life brings. - John McEnroe
  • You need to have a lot of human judgment involved in the financial industry in terms of risk management, in terms of investment decisions, and things that really allow us to blend the best of technology and the human brain. And so I think that's where the future is going to be. - Adena Friedman

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